PE 

1109 

M922 

1816 

ED-P 


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^     ;i 


'  A 

KEY 

TO 

THE  EXERCISES 

ADAPTED  TO 

MURRAY'S 

ENGLISH  GRAMMAR. 

CALCULATED  T-O  ENABLE  PRIVATE  LEARNER.S 

TO  BECOME  THEIR  OWN    INSTRUCTORS, 
IN    GRAMMAR   AND    COMPOSITION. 

BY  THE  AUTHOR  OF   THE  EXERCISES. 

FROM    THE    TWELFTH    LONDON    EDITION. 


ALBANY  : 

PRINTED  AND  SOLD  BY  G.  J,  LOOMIS  $  CO. 

Corner  of  State  5[*  Lodge-streets,  opposite 
the  Episcopal  Church, 


1816. 


eouc* 


J1D  VEE  TI8EMENT 
TO    THE   TENTH    EDITION. 


THE  author  of  this  work,  and  of  the  books  connected 
with  it,  thinks  it  is  incumbent  upon  him  to  make  some  apolo- 
gy, for  the  variations  which  are  to  be  found  in  the  different 
editions.  The  infirm  state  of  his  health ;  his  numerous 
occupations ;  and  the  quick  succession  of  new  editions  of 
his  English  Grammar,  English  Exercises,  and  Key  to  the 
Exercises,  prevented  him  from  giving  these  books,  at  an 
early  period  of  their  publication,  all  the  improvement  which 
he  had  contemplated,  or  which  had  been  occasionally  sug- 
gested to  him.  The  successive  additions  and  improvements 
which  these  works  have  received,  and  which  sometimes  oc- 
casioned a  want  of  correspondence  amongst  them,  must  cer- 
tainly have  been  productive  of  inconvenience  or  expense,  to 
many  persons  who  had  purchased  the  earlier  editions.  This, 
though  the  author  regretted  the  circumstance,  was,  for  the 
reasons  alleged,  unavoidable.  He  must  either  have  sup- 
pressed the  improvements,  or  have  inserted  them  gradually 
as  the  new  editions  appeared  ;  but  as  he  conceived  them  to 
be  of  considerable  importance,  he  could  not  think  it  warrant- 
able to  omit  them  ;  and  the  approbation  of  the  public  has 
confirmed  him  in  the  propriety  of  this  decision. 

It  is  with  particular  satisfaction  that  the  author  can  now 
state,  that  the  additions  and  alterations  which  he  had  in 
•new,  are  completed,  and  are  contained  in  the  Stereotype 
edition  of  the  Grammar,  the  twelfth  of  the  Exercises,  and 
the  tenth  of  the  Key ;  that  these  editions  of  the  books  cor- 
respond exactly  to  one  another ;  and  that  it  is  his  intention 
that,  in  every  future  edition  of  each  of  them,  this  correspon- 
dence shall  be  faithfully  preserved. 

It  is  indeed  possible,  that  some  illustrations  or  justifica- 
tion of  particular  rules  and  positions  contained  in  the  Gram- 
mar, may  yet  be  necexssary.  But  if,  contrary  to  expectation, 
this  should  be  the  case,  the  practical  parts  of  the  system 

544413 


ADVERTISEMENT. 


will  not  be  affe'cted  by  such  additions.  The  connexion, 
as  it  rrow  subsists,  between  the  Grammar,  the  Exercises, 
and  the  Key,  will  remain  invariably  the  same ;  unless  some 
error,  at  present  unobserved,  should  hereafter  be  discovered. 

As  the  types  composing  the  Grammar  have,  for  a  consid- 
erable time,  been  kept  standing  ;  and  as  the  book  could  not 
be  enlaged  without  advancing  its  price  ;  many  of  the  sub- 
sequent improvements  have  heeri  necessarily  inserted  in 
appropriate  parts  of  the  Exercises,  or  the  Key.  Referen- 
ces have,  however,  been  made  in  the  Grammar,  under  the 
correspondent  rules,  to  the  additional  notes  and  illustra- 
tions. To  this  mode  of  supplying  improvements,  the  rea- 
der will  have  the  less  objection,  when  he  considers  that  the 
Exercises  and  the  Key  are  necessary  appendages  to  the 
Grammar  ;  and  serve  to  illustrate  and  enforce,  as  well  as 
to  extend,  its  rules  and  positions.  The  three  volumes  are 
indeed  intimately  connected,  and  constitute  one  uniform 
system  of  English  Grammar. 

To  this  edition  of  the  Key,  the  author  has  subjoined  a 
copious  Alphabetical  Index  to  the  Grammar,  the  Exercises 
and  the  Key  ;  a  wwk  which,  he  flatters  himself,  will  be  gen- 
erally useful ;  and  particularly  acceptable  to  students  whe 
have  made  some  progress  in  the  knowledge  of  Grammar. 

HOLGATE  near  YORK,   1808. 


RECOMMENDATIONS. 


The  following  w*e  a  few  of  the  numerous  recom- 
mendations of  MURRAY'S    GRAMMAR, 

which  have  appeared  in  the  works  of  different 
Authors. 

"  MR.  Murray's  Grammar,  and  Selection  of 
lessons  for  reading,  are  the  best  in  the  English 
language." 

Walker's  Elements  of  Elocution.     Second 
edition. 

"  Since  the  first  edition  of  our  work,  we  have 
seen  with  pleasure  an  English  Grammar — English 
Exercises— and  a  Key  to  the  English  Exercises, 
by  Lindley  Murray." 

Edg  worth's    Practical  Education.    Second 
edition. 

"  Murray's  English  Grammar.      This  is  the-' 
most  complete  grammar  of  our   language.     My 
opinion  is  confirmed  by  that  of  the  public,  as  this 
work  now  appears  in  tha  fourteenth  edition." 
ICett's   Elements  of    General   Knowledge. 
Sixth  edition. 

"Murray's  Grammar,  together  with  his  Eng- 
lish Exercises  and  Key  have  nearly  superseded 
every  thing  else  of  the  kind,  by  concentrating  the 
remarks  of  the  best  authors  on  the  subject.  They 
are  pieces  of  inestimable  utility. 

Evan's  Essay  on  the  Education  of  Youth. 

"  The  best  English  Grammar  now  extant,  is 
that  written  by  Mr.  Lindley  Murray ;  who  by 
this  publication,  and  by  several  others  connected 


VI;  RECOMMENDATIONS. 

with  it,  and  designed  as  auxiliaries  to  its  princi- 
pal purpose,  lias  become  entitled  to  the  gratitude 
of  every  friend  to  English  literature,  and  to  true 
virtue." 

Dr.  Miller's  Retrospect  of  the  Eighteenth 
Century. 

"  By  Grammar  you  have  been  taught  the  na- 
ture, power,  and  construction  of  the  English  lan- 
guage ;  and  that,  not  in  a  superficial  manner,  but 
by  the  most  comprehensive  system  now  extant,  the 
larger  Grammar  of  Mr.  Lindley  Murray ;  in 
which  the  delicacies,  refinements,  and  peculiari- 
ties of  our  language,  are  inculcated  and  exempli- 
fied. The  unwearied  exertions  of  this  gentleman 
have  done  more  towards  elucidating  the  obscuri- 
ties, and  embellishing  the  structure,  of  ©ur  lan- 
guage, than  any  other  writer  on  the  subject. 
Such  a  work  has  long  been  wanted ;  and,  from 
the  success  with  which  it  is  executed,  cannot  be 
too  highly  appreciated." 

I)r.  Merer  ombie's  Charges  to  the  /Senior 
Class  of  the  Philadelphia  Academy — 
published  1804  and  1806. 

« I  NEED  not  acquaint  the  public,  with  the  merit 
and  success  of  Lindley  Murray's  Grammar  ; 
which  seems  to  have  superseded  every  other.  In- 
deed, when  We  consider  the  plain  simple  mode 
of  instruction  he  has  adopted ;  the  extent  of  ob- 
servation he  has  displayed  ;  and  the  copious  va- 
riety of  illustration  he  has  added ;  we  shall  not 
wonder,  that  this  Grammar  has  been  so  univer- 
sally applauded." 

Walker's  Outlines  of  English  Grammar. 


CONTENTS, 

PART  II. 

ORTHOGRAPHY. 

Page 
CHAP.  1.  Corrections  of  the  false  Orthography, 

arranged  under  the  respective  rules     1 
3.  Corrections  of  the  false  Orthography, 
promiscuously  disposed  5 

PART  III. 

SYNTAX. 

CHAP.  1.  Corrections  of  the  false  Syntax,  ar- 
ranged under  the  rules  18 
3.  Corrections  of  the  false  Syntax, 

promiscuously  disposed  69 

PART  IV. 

PUNCTUATION. 

CHAP.  1.  Applications  of  the  Comma,  dispos- 
ed under  the  particular  rules      -     86 

2.  Insertions    of   the  Semicolon  and 

Comma  94; 

3.  Applications  of  the  Colon,  &G.     -  96 

4.  Insertions  of  the  Period,  &c.         -  97 

5.  Applications  of  the  Dash  ;  of  the 

Notes  of  Interrogation  and  Ex- 
clamation ;  and  of  the  Parenthet- 
ical characters  -  9^ 

6.  Corrections  of  the  promiscuous  in- 

stances of  defective  punctuation    100 


VIII,  CONTENTS, 

PART  V. 

PESPICUITY  AND  ACCURACY. 

First,  with  respect  to  single  words  and  phrases. 


Page 
CHAP.  1.  Corrections  of  the  errors  that  relate 

to  Purity  110 

2.  Corrections  of  the  errors  that  relate 

to  Propriety  112 

3.  Corrections  of   the  errors  which 

respect  Precision  119 

Secondly,  with   respect  to   the  construction    of 
sentences. 

CHAP.  1.  Corrections  of  the  errors  which  re- 
late to  the  Clearness  of  a  sentence  120 

2.  Corrections  of  the  errors  relating  to 

the  Unity  of  a  sentence  126 

3.  Corrections  of  the  errors  which  jre- 

spect  the  Strength  of  a  sentence  129 

4.  Corrections  of  the  errors  that  re- 

late to  Figures  of  speech  139 

5.  Corrections  of    the  errors  in   th& 

chapter   of   Promiscuous  Exer- 
ercises  141 

Alphabetical  Index   to   the   Grammar,   the 

Exercises  and  Key  -      153 


KEY  TO  THE 


PART  II.* 

ORTHROGRAPHY, 

CHAP.  I. 

Containing  corrections  of  the  false  Ortlirograpby 
arranged  under  the  respective  Rules. 


RULE  I. 
;  p,  37,     Exercises  p.  30. 


IT  is  no  great  merit  to  spell  properly ;  but  a  great 
defect  to  do  it  incorrectly. 
Jacob  worshiped  his  Creator,  leaning  on  the 
top  of  his  staff. 

We  may  place  too  little,  as  well  as  too  much, 
stress  upon  dreams. 

Our  manners  should  be  neither  gross,  nor  ex- 
cessively refined. 

*A  regular  explanation  of  the  Exercises  in  parsing,  \vould 
occupy  a  great  portion  of  this  volume  ;  and,  after  all,  would 
be  of  little  use  to  the  learner  :  a  Key  to  Part  I.  is  therefore 
omitted.  General  directions,  respecting  the  mode  of  Pars- 
ing, may  be  seen  in  the  twelfth,  or  any, subsequent  edition  of 
the  Grammar,  page  215,  If  they  are  carefully  studied,  the  j 
will  enable  the  learner  to  parse  all  the  exercises. 

B 


§  KEY, 


II. 


Gni.m:n;ir  JKU-V  ,38.     Exercises,  page  31. 

A  .?nr  sianiiirH  P.  diarriot  of  war,  or  a  small 
carriage  of  burden. 

In  the  names  of  drugs  and  plants,  the  mistake 
in  a  word  may  endanger  life. 

Nor  undeligktful  is  the  ceaseless  hum 

To  him  who  muses  through  the  woods  at  noon. 

The  fin  of  a  fish  is  the  limb,  by  which  he  bal- 
ances his  body,  and  moves  in  the  water. 

Many  a  trap  is  laid  to  insnare  the  feet  of  youth. 

Many  thousand  families  are  supported  by  the 
simple  business  of  making  mats. 

RULE    III. 

We  should  subject  pur  fancies  to  the  govern- 
ment of  reason. 

If  thon  art  seeking  for  the  living  amongst  the 
dead,  thou  weariest  thyself  in  vain. 

If  we  have  denied  ourselves  sinful  pleasures, 
we  shall  be  great  gainers  in  the  end. 

We  shall  not  be  the  happier  for  possessing  talents 
and  affluence,  unless  we  make  a  right  use  of  them. 

The  truly  good  mind  is  not  dismayed  by  poverty, 
afflictions,  or  death. 

RULE    IV. 
Grammar,  p.  38.     Exercises,  p.  32. 

It  is  a  great  blessing  to  have  a  sound  mind,  un- 
influenced by  fanciful  humours. 

Common  calamities,  and  common  blessings,  fall 
fieavily  upon  the  envious. 

The  comeliness  of  youth  are  modesty  and  frank- 
ness ;  of  age,  condescension  and  dignity. 

When  we  act  against  conscience,  we  become 
the  destroyers  of  our  own  peace. 


ORTHOGRAPHY.  3 

We  may  be  playful,  and  yet  innocent ;  grave, 
and  yet  corrupt.  It  is  only  from  general  conduct,, 
that  our  true  character  can  be  portrayed. 

RULE  v. 

When  we  bring  the  lawmaker  into  contempt, 
we  have  in  effect  annulled  his  laws. 

By  deferring  our  repentance,  we  accumulate 
our  sorrows. 

The  pupils  of  a  certain  ancient  philosopher, 
were  not,  during  their  first  years  of  study,  permit- 
ted to  ask  any  questions. 

We  all  have  many  failings  and  lapses  to  lament 
and  recover. 

There  is  no  affliction  with  which  we  are  visited, 
that  may  not  be  improved  to  our  advantage. 

The  Christian  Lawgiver  has  prohibited  many 
things,  which  the  heathen  philosophers  allowed. 

RULE    VI. 
Grammar,  p.  39.    Exercises,  p.  S3. 

Restlessness  of  mind  disqualifies  us,  both  for  the 
enjoyment  of  peace,  &  the  performance  of  our  duty. 

The  arrows  of  calumny  fall  harmlessly  at  the 
feet  of  virtue. 

The  road  to  the  blissful  regions,  is  as  open  to 
the  peasant  as  to  the  king. 

A  chilness,  or  shivering  of  the  body,  generally 
precedes  a  fever. 

To  recommend  virtue  to  others,  our  lights  must 
shine  brightly,  not  dully. 

The  silent  stranger  stood  amaz'd  to  see 
Contempt  of  wealth,  and  wilful  poverty. 

RULE    VII. 

The  warmth  of  dissipation,  destroys  thai  sedate* 
ness  of  mind  which  is  necessary  to  discover  truth, 


4  KEY. 

All  these  with  ceaseless  praise  his  works  behold, 
Both  day  and  night. 

In  all  our  reasonings,  our  minds  should  be  sin- 
cerely employed  in  the  pursuit  of  truth. 

Rude  behaviour,  and  indecent  language,  are 
peculiarly  disgraceful  to  youth  of  education. 

The  true  worship  of  God  is  an  important  and 
awful  service. 
Wisdom  alone  is  truly  fair :  folly  only  appears  so. 

RULE    VIII. 
Grammar,  p.  39.     Exercises,  p.  34. 

The  study  of  the  English  language  is  making 
daily  advancement. 

A  judicious  arrangement  of  studies  facilitates 
improvement. 

To  shun  allurements  is  not  hard, 

To  minds  resolv'd,  forewarned  and  well  prepar'd. 

RULE  IX. 

Kywy  nftraon  and  thing  comiPC*G(l  ^  -^ 
is  apt  to  appear  good  and  desirable  in  our  eyes. 

Errors  and  misconduct  are  more  excusable  in 
ignorant,  than  in  well-instructed  persons. 

The  divine  laws  are  not  reversible  by  those  of 
men. 

Gratitude  is  a  forcible  and  active  principle  in 
good  and  generous  minds. 

Our  natural  and  involuntary  defects  of  body, 
are  not  chargeable  upon  us. 

We  are  made  to  be  serviceable  to  others,  as 
well  as  to  ourselves. 

RULE  x. 

An  obliging  and  humble  disposition,  is  totally 
miromiected  with  a  servile  and  cringing  humour. 


ORTHOGRAPHY. 

By  solacing  the  sorrows  of  others,  the  heart  is 
improved,  at  the  same  time  that  our  duty  is  per- 
formed. 

Labour  and  expense  are  lost  upon  a  dronisk 
spirit. 

The  inadvertences  of  youth  may  be  excused,  but 
knavish  tricks  should  meet  with  severe  reproof. 

RULE    XI. 

Grammar,  p.  39.     Exercises,  p.  35* 
Love  worketh  no  ill  to  our  neighbour,  and  is  the 
fulfill  ng  of  the  law* 

That  which  is  sometimes  expedient,  is  not  al- 
ways so. 

We  may  be  hurtful  to  others,  by  our  example^ 
as  \vell  as  by  personal  injuries. 

Where  diligence  opens  the  door  of  the  under- 
standing, and  impartiality  keeps  it,  truth  finds  an 
entrance  and  a  welcome  too. 


CHAP.  II. 

Containing  corrections  of  the  false  Orthography, 
promiscously  disposed. 

SECTION    Io 
Exercise,  p.  36. 

NEGLECT  no  opportunity  of  doing  good. 
No  man  can  steadily  build  upon  accidents* 

How  shall  we  keep,  what  sleeping  or  awake, 
A  weaker  may  surprise,   a  stronger  take. 

Neither  time  nor  misfortunes  should  erase  the 
remembrance  of  a  friend. 

Moderation  should  preside,  both  in  the  kitchen 
and  the  parlour. 

B  3 


<5  KEY.  fPromis- 

Shall  we  receive  good  at  the  Divine  hand,  and 
shall  we  not  receive  evil  ? 

In  many  designs,  we  may  succeed  and  be  miser- 
able. 

We  should  have  sense  and  virtue  enough  to  re- 
cede from  our  demands,  when  they  appear  to  be 
unreasonable. 

All  our  comforts  proceed  from  the  Father  of 
Goodness. 

The  ruin  of  a  state  is  generally  preceded  by  a 
universal  degeneracy  of  manners,  and  a  contempt 
of  religion. 

His  father  omitted  nothing  in  his  education,  that 
might  render  him  virtuous  and  useful. 

The  daw  in  the  fable  was  dressed  in  pilfered 
ornaments. 

A  favour  conferred  with  delicacy,  doubles  the 
obligation. 

They  tempted  their  Creator,  and  limited  the 
Holy  One  of  Israel. 

The  precepts  of  a  good  education  have  often 
recurred  in  time  of  need. 

We  are  frequently  benefited  by  what  we  have 
dreaded. 

It  is  no  great  virtue  to  live  lovingly  with  good 
natured  and  meek  persons. 

The  Christian  religion  gives  a  more  lovely  char- 
acter of  God,  than  any  religion  ever  did. 

Without  sinistroiis  views,  they  are  dexterous 
managers  of  their  own  interest. 

Any  thing  committed  to  the  trust  and  care  of 
another,  is  a  deposite. 

Here  finish* d  he,  and  all  that  he  had  made 
Viewed  and  beheld  !    All  was  entirely  good. 

It  deserves  our  best  skill  to  inquire  into  those 
fules,  by  which  we  may  guide  our  judgment. 

Food,  clothing,  and  habitations,  are  the  rewards 
of  industry. 


CllOUS.J  ORTHOGRAPHY.  7 

If  we  lay  no  restraint  upon  our  lusts-,  no  controul 
upon  our  appetites  and  passions^  they  will  hurry 
us  into  guilt  and  misery. 

An  Independent  is  one  who,  in  religious  affairs, 
holds  that  every  congregation  is  a  complete  Church. 

Receive  his  counsel^  and  securely  move  : 
Intrust  thy  fortune  to  the  Power  above. 

Following  life  in  creatures  we  dissect, 
We  lose  it  in  the  moment  we  detect. 

The  acknowledgment  of  our  transgressions 
must  precede  the  forgiveness  of  them. 

Judicious  abridgments  often  aid  the  studies  of 
youth. 

Examine  how  thy  humour  is  inclined, 
And  which  the  ruling  passion  of  thy  mind. 

• He  falters  at  the  question  : 

His  fears,  his  words,  his  looks,  declare  him  guilty. 

Calico  \$  a  thin  cloth  made  of  cotton  ;  sometimes 
stained  with  lively  colours. 

To  promote  iniquity  in  others,  is  nearly  the  same 
as  being  the  actors  of  it  ourselves. 

The  glazier's  business  was  unknown  to  the  an- 
cients. 

The  antecedent,  in  grammar,  is  the  noun  or 
pronoun  to  which  the  relative  refers. 

SECTION    2k 
Exercises,  p.  38. 

BE  not  afraid  of  the  wicked:  they  are  under  the 
control  of  Providence.  Consciousness  of  guilt 
may  justly  affright  us. 

Convey  to  others  no  intelligence  which  you 
would  be  ashamed  to  avow. 

Many  are  weighed  in  the  balance,  and  found 
wanting. 

How  many  disappointments  have;  in  their  con- 
sequences;  saved  a  man  from  ruin  ! 


8  KEY.  fPromis* 

A  well-poised  mind  makes  a  cheerful  countenance. 

A  certain  householder  planted  a  vineyard,  but 
the  men  employed  in  it  made  ungrateful  returns. 

Let  us  show  diligence  in  every  laudable  under- 
taking. 

Cinnamon  is  the  fragrant  bark  of  a  low  tree  in 
the  island  of  Ceylon. 

A  ram  will  butt  with  his  head,  though  he  be 
brought  up  tame,  and  never  saw  the  action. 

We  perceive  a  piece  of  silver  in  a  basin,  when 
water  is  poured  on  it,  though  we  could  not  discov- 
er it  before. 

Virtue  embalms  the  memory  of  the  good. 

The  king  of  Great  Britain  is  a  limited  monarch ; 
and  the  British  nation  a  free  people. 

The  physician  may  dispense  the  medicine,  but 
Providence  alone  can  bless  it. 

In  many  pursuits,  we  embark  with  pleasure, 
and  land  sorrowfully. 

Rocks,  mountains,  and  caverns,  are  of  indispen- 
sable use,  both  to  the  earth  and  to  man. 

The  hive  of  a  city,  or  kingdom,  is  in  the  best  con- 
dition, when  there  is  the  least  noise  or  buzz  in  it. 

The  roughness  found  on  our  entrance  into  the 
paths  of  virtue  and  learning,  grow  smoother  as  we 
advance. 

That  which  was  once  the  most  beautiful  spot  of 
Italy,  covered  with  palaces,  embellished  by  prin- 
ces, and  celebrated  by  poets,  has  now  nothing  to 
show  but  ruins, 

Battering  rams  were  anciently  used  to  beat 
down  the  .walls  of  a  city. 

Jockey  signifies  a  man  who  rides  horses  in  a 
race  ;  or  who  deals  in  horses. 

The  harmlessness  of  many  animals,  and  the 
enjoyment  which  they  have  of  life,  should  plead 
for  them  against  cruel  usage. 


CUOUS.J  ORTHOGRAPHY.  9 

We  may  be  very  busy,  to  no  useful  purpose. 

We  cannot  plead  in  abatement  of  our  guilt,  that 
we  are  ignorant  of  our  duty. 

Genuine  charity,  how  liberal  soever  it  may  be, 
will  never  empoverish  ourselves.  If  we  sow  spar- 
ingly, we  shall  reap  accordingly. 

However  disagreeable,  we  must  resolutely  per- 
form our  duty. 

A  fit  of  sickness  is  often  a  kind  chastisement 
and  discipline,  to  moderate  our  affections  for  the 
things  of  this  life. 

It  is  a  happiness  to  young  persons,  when  they 
are  preserved  from  the  snares  of  the  world,  as  in  a 
garden  enclosed. 

Health  and  peace,  the  most  valuable  possess- 
ions, are  obtained  at  small  expense. 

Incense  signifies  perfumes  exhaled  by  fire,  and 
made  use  of  in  religious  ceremonies. 

True  happiness  is  an  enemy  to  pomp  and  noise. 

Few  reflections  are  more  distressing,  than 
those  which  we  make  on  our  own  ingratitude- 

There  is  an  inseparable  connexion  between  pi- 
ety and  virtue. 

Many  actions  have  a  fair  complexion,  which 
have  not  sprung  from  virtue. 

Which  way  soever  we  turn  ourselves,  we  are 
encountered  with  sensible  demonstrations  of  a 
Deity. 

If  we  forsake  the  ways  of  virtue,  we  cannot  aZ- 
lege  any  colour  of  ignorance,  or  want  of  instruction. 

SECTION  3. 

THERE  are  more  cultivators  of  the  earth,  than 
of  their  own  hearts. 

Man  is  encompassed  with  dangers  innumerable. 
War  is  attended  with  distressful  and  desolating 


10  KEY.  ffromis- 

fcffects.  It  is  confessedly  the  scourge  of  our  an- 
gry passions. 

The  earth  is  the  Lord's,  and  the  fulness  thereof. 

The  harvest  truly  is  plenteous,  but  the  labour- 
ers are  few. 

The  greater  OUY  incitements  to  evil,  the  greater 
will  he  our  victory  and  reward. 

We  should  not  encourage  persons  to  do  what 
they  believe  to  be  wrong. 

Virtue  is  placed  between  ttvo  extremes,  which 
are  both  equally  blamable. 

We  should  continually  have  the  goal  in  our 
view,  which  would  direct  us  in  the  race. 

The  gaols  were  forced  open,  and  the  prisoners 
set  free. 

It  cannot  be  said  that  we  are  charitable  donors, 
when  our  gifts  proceed  from  selfish  motives. 

Strait  is  the  gate,  and  narrow  the  way,  that 
lead  to  life  eternal. 

Integrity  leads  us  straight  forward,  disdaining 
all  doublings  and  crooked  paths. 

Licentiousness  and  crimes  pave  the  way  to  ruin. 

Words  are  the  counters  of  wise  men,  but  the 
money  of  fools. 

Recompense  to  no  man  evil  for  evil. 

He  was  an  excellent  person  ;  a  mirror  of  an- 
cient faith  in  early  youth. 

Meekness  controls  our  angry  passions :  candour ', 
our  severe  judgme nts. 

He  is  not  only  a  descendant  from  piou>s  ances- 
tors, but  an  inheritor  too  of  their  virtues. 

A  dispensary  is  the  place  where  medicines  are 
dispensed  :  a  dispensatory  is  a  book  in  which  the 
composition  of  them  is  described. 

Faithfulness  and  judgment  are  peculiarly  re- 
quisite in  testamentary  executors. 


CllOUS.J  ORTHOGRAPHY.  11 

To  "be  faithful  among  the  faithless,  argues  great 
strength  of  principle. 

Mountains  appear  to  be  like  so  many  wens  or 
unnatural  protuberances  QH  the  face  of  the  earth- 
In  some  places  the  sea  encroaches  upon  the 
land ;  in  others,  the  land  upon  the  sea. 

Philosophers  agreed  in  despising  riches,  as  the 
encumbrances  of  life. 

Wars  are  regulated  robberies  and  piracies. 

Fishes  increase  more  than  beasts  or  birds,  as 
appears  from  their  numerous  spawn. 

The  pyramids  of  Egypt  have  stood  more  thai} 
three  thousand  years. 

Precepts  have  small  influence,  when  not  enfor- 
ced by  example. 

How  has  kind  Heav'n  adorn'd  the  happy  land, 
And  scatter 'd  blessings  with  a  wasteful  hand. 

A.  friend  exaggerates  a  man's  virtues,  an  ene- 
my inflames  his  crimes. 

A  witty  and  humorous  vein  has  often  produced 
enemies. 

Neither  pleasure  nor  business  should  engross 
our  time  and  affections  ;  proper  seasons  should  be 
allotted  for  retirement. 

It  is  laudable  to  inquire  before  we  determine. 

Many  have  been  visited  with  afflictions,  who 
have  not  profited  by  them. 

We  may  be  successful,  and  yet  disappointed. 

SECTION  4. 

Exercises,  p.  42. 

The  experience  of  want  enhances  the  value  of 
plenty. 

To  maintain  opinions  stiffly,  is  no  evidence  of 
their  truth,  or  of  our  moderation. 

ffoarkound  has  been  famous  for  its  medicinal 
qualities  :  but  it  is  now  little  used. 


13  KEY,  fPromis- 

The  wicked  are  often  insnared  in  the  trap 
which  they  lay  for  others. 

Jt  is  hard  to  say  what  diseases  are  curable : 
they  are  all  under  the  guidance  of  Heaven. 

Instructors  should  not  only  be  skilful  in  those 
sciences  which  they  teach  ;  but  have  skill  in  the 
method  of  teaching,  and  patience  in  tliv  practice. 

Science  strengthens  and  enlarges  the  minds  of 
men. 

A  steady  mind  may  receive  counsel  j  but  there 
is  no  hold  on  a  changeable  humour. 

We  may  inure  ourselves  by  custom,  to  bear  the 
extremities  of  iceather  without  injury. 

Excessive  merriment  is.  the  parent  of  grief. 

Air  is  sensible  to  the  touch  by  its  motion,  and 
by  its  resistance  to  bodies  moved  in  it. 

A  polite  address  is  sometimes  the  cloak  of  malice. 

To  practice  virtue  is  the  sure  way  to  love  it. 

Many  thing*  are  plausible  in  theory,  which  fail 
in  practice. 

Learning  and  knowledge  must  be  attained  by 
slow  degrees  :  and  are  the  reward  only  of  dili- 
gence and  patience. 

We  should  study  to  live  peaceably  with  all  men, 

A  soul  that  can  securely  death  defy, 
And  count  it  nature's  privilege  to  die. 

Whatever  promotes  the  interest  of  the  soul,  is 
also  conducive  to  our  present  felicity. 

Let  not  the  sternness  of  virtue  affright  us  ;  she 
will  soon  become  amiable. 

The  spacious  firmament  on  high, 
With  all  the  blue  etherial  sky, 
And  spangled  heav'ns,  a  shining  frame, 
Their  great  Original  proclaim. 

Passion  is  the  drunkenness  of  the  mind  ;  it  $u- 
persedes  the  workings  of  reason. 


ORTHOGRAPHY.  13 

If  we  are  sincere,,  we  may  be  assured  of  an  ad- 
vocate to  intercede  for  us. 

We  ought  not  to  consider  tliz  increase  of  anoth* 
er?8  reputation,  as  a  diminution  of  our  own. 

The  rheumatism  is  a  painful  distemper,  sup- 
posed to  proceed  from  acrid  humours. 

The  beautiful  and  accomplished,  are  tpo  apt  to 
study  behaviour  rather  than  virtue. 

The  peasant's  cabin  contains  as  much  content 
as  the  sovereign's  palace. 

True  valour  protects  the  feeble,  and  humbles 
the  oppressor. 

David,  the  son  of  Jesse,  was  a  wise  and'-i?a£~ 
iant  man? 

Prophecies  and  miracles  proclaimed  Jesus 
Christ  to  be  Saviour  of  the  world. 

Esau  sold  his  birthright  for  a  savoury  mess  of 
pottage. 

A  regular  and  virtuous  education,  is  an  inesti- 
wrable  blessing, 

Honour  and  shame  from  no  conditipn  rise  : 
A.ct  well  jour  part ;  there,  all  the  honour  lies. 

The  rigour  of  monkish  discipline  often  conceals 
great  depravity  of  heart. 

We  should  recollect,  th&t  however  favourable 
we  may  be  to  ourselves,  we  are  rigorously  exam- 
ipedby  others, 

SECTION  5, 
Exercises,  p.  44. 

VIRTUE  can  render  youth,  as  well  as  old  age, 
honourable. 

Rumour  often  tells  false  tales. 

Weak  minds  are  ruffled  by  trifling  things. 

The  cabbage  tree  is  very  common  in  the  Caribbec 
islands,  where  it  grows  to  a  prodigious  height. 


fPromis- 

Visit  the  sick,  feed  the  hungry,  clothe  the  naked. 

His  smiles  and  tears  are  too  artificial  to  he  re, 
lied  on. 

The  most  essential  virtues  of  a  Christian  are 
love  to  God,  and  benevolence  to  man. 

We  should  he  cheerful  without  levity, 

A  calendar  signifies  a  register  of  the  year ;  and  a 
calendar,  a  press  in  which  clothiers  smooth  their 
cloth. 

Integrity  and  hope  are  the  sure  palliative*  of 
sorrow. 

Chamomile  is  an  odoriferous  plant,  and  posses- 
ses considerable  medicinal  virtues. 

The  gaiety  of  youth  should  be  tempered  by  the 
precepts  of  age. 

Certainty,  even  on  distressful  occasions,  is 
sometimes  more  eligible  than  suspense, 

Still  green  with  bays  each  ancient  altar  stands, 
Above  the  reach  of  sacrilegious  hands. 

The  most  acceptable  sacrifice,  is  that  of  a  con- 
trite and  humble  heart, 

We  are  accountable  for  whatever  we  patronise 
in  others. 

It  marks  a  savage  disposition,  to  torture  animals, 
to  make  them  smart  and  agonize,  for  our  diver- 
sion. 

The  edge  of  cloth,  where  it  is  closed  by  compli- 
cating the  threads,  is  called  the  selvage. 

Souchong  tea  and  Turkey  coffee  were  his  fa- 
vourite beverage  ;  chocolate  he  seldom  drank. 

The  guilty  mind  cannot  avoid  many  melancholy 
apprehensions. 

If  we  injure  others,  we  must  expect  retaliation. 

Let  every  man  be  fully  persuaded  in  his  own 
mind. 

Peace  and  honour  are  the  sheaves  of  virtue's 
harvest, 


tlWUS.J  ORTHOGRAPHY.  15 

The  black  earth,  every  'where  obvious  on  the 
surface  of  the  ground,  we  call  mould. 

The  Roman  pontiff  claims  to  be  the  supreme 
head  of  the  church  on  earth. 

High  seasoned  food  vitiates  the  palate^  and  oc^ 
easions  a  disrelish  for  plain  fare. 

The  conscious  receiver  is  as  bad  as  the  thief. 

Alexander,  the  conqueror  of  the  world,  was,  in 
Fact,  a  robber,  and  a  murderer. 

The  Divine  Being  is  not  only  the  Creator,  but 
the  Ruler  and  Preserver  of  the  world. 

Honest  endeavours^  if  persevered  in,  will  final- 
ly be  successful, 

He  who  dies  for  religion,  is  a  martyr  ;  he  \Vlio 
suffers  for  it,  is  a  confessor. 

In  the  paroxysm  of  passion,  we  sometimes  give 
occasion  for  a  life  of  repentance. 

The  mist  which  envelops  many  studies,  is  dis- 
sipated when  we  approach  them. 

The  voice  is  sometimes  obstructed  by  a  hoarse- 
ness,  or  by  vicious  phlegm. 

The  desert  shall  rejoica,  and  blossom  as  the  rose. 

The  fruit  and  sweetmeats  set  on  table  after  the 
meat,  are  called  the  dessert. 

We  traversed  the  jtowery&eld^9  till  the  falling 
dews  admonished  us  to  return. 

SECTION  6. 

Exercises,  p.  46. 

THERE  is  Frequently  a  worm  &i  the  root  of  cur 
most  flourishing  condition. 

The  stalk  of  ivy  is  tough,  and  not  fragile. 

The  roof  is  vaulted,  and  distils  fresh  water  from 
every  part  of  it. 

Our  imperfections  are  discernible  by  others, 
when  we  think  they  are  concealed. 

They  think  they  shall  be  heard  for  their  much 
speaking. 


16  KEY.  (fromis- 

True  criticism  is  not  a  captious,  but  a  liberal  art. 

Integrity  is  our  best  defence  against  the  evils  of 
life. 

No  circumstance  can  license  evil,  or  dispense 
with  the  rules  of  virtue. 

We  may  be  ciphers  in  the  world's  estimation, 
whilst  we  are  advancing  our  own  and  others'  value. 

The  path  of  virtue  is  the  path  of  peace. 

A  dipthong  is  the  coalition  of  two  vowels  to 
form  one  sound. 

However  forcible  our  temptations,  they  may  be 
resisted. 

I  acknowledge  my  transgression ;  and  my  sin 
is  ever  before  me. 

The  college  of  cardinals  are  the  electors  of  the 
pope. 

He  had  no  colourable  excuse  to  palliate  his  con- 
duct. 

Thy  humorous  vein,  thy  pleasing  folly, 
Lie  all  neglected,  all  forgot. 

If  we  are  so  conceited  as  obstinately  to  reject  all 
advice,  we  must  expect  a  dereliction  of  friends. 

Chronology  is  the  science  of  confuting  and  ad- 
justing the  periods  of  time. 

In  groves  we  live,  and  lie  on  moSsy  beds, 

By  crystial  streams,  that  murmur  through  the  meads. 

It  is  a  secret  cowardice  which  induces  us  to 
compliment  the  vices  of  our  superiors,  to  applaud 
the  libertine,  and  laugh  with  the  profane. 

The  lark  each  morning  waked  me  with  her 
sprightly  lay. 

There  are  no  fewer  than  thirty-two  species  of 
the  lily. 

We  owe  it  to  our  visiters  as  well  as  to  ourselves, 
to  entertain  them  with  useful  and  sensible  conver- 
sation. 


C110US.J  ORTHOGRAPHY.  17 

Sponsors  are  those  who  become  sureties  for  the 
children's  education  in  the  Christian  faith. 

The  warrior's  fame  is  often  purchased  by  the 
blood  of  thousands. 

Hope  exhilarates  the  mind,  and  is  the  grand 
elixir,  under  all  the  evils  of  life. 

The  incense  of  gratitude,  whilst  it  expresses  our 
duty,  and  honours  our  benefactor,  perfumes  and 
regales  ourselves. 


C5  3 


PART  III. 

SYNTAX. 

CHAP.  I. 

Containing  corrections  of  the  false  SYNTAX,  ar- 
ranged under  the  Rules. 


RULE    I. 
Grammar,  p.  139.     Exercises,  p.  48. 

DISAPPOINTMENTS  sink  the  heart  of  man;  but 
the  renewal  of  hope  gives  consolation. 

The  smiles  that  encourage  severity  of  judgment^ 
hide  malice  and  insincerity. 

He  dares  not  act  contrary  to  his  instructions. 

Fifty  pounds  of  wheat  contain  forty  pounds  of 
flour. 

The  mechanism  of  clocks  and  watches  was  to- 
tally unknown  a  few  centuries  ago. 

The  number  of  the  inhabitants  of  Great  Britain 
and  Ireland^  does  not  exceed  sixteen  millions. 

Nothing  but  vain  and  foolish  pursuits  delights 
some  persons. 

A  variety  of  pleasing  objects  charms  the  eye. 

So  much  ability  and  merit  is  seldom  found. 

In  the  conduct  of  Parmenio,  a  mixture  of  wis- 
dom and  folly  was  very  conspicuous. 

He  is  an  author  of  more  credit  than  Plutarch; 
or  any  other,  that  writes  lives  too  hastily. 

The  inquisitive  and  curious  are  generally  talk- 
ative. 

Great  pains  have  been  taken  to  reconcile  the 
parties. 


Rule,  i  SYNTAX.  19 

I  am  sorry  to  say  it,  but  there  were  more  equivo- 
cators  than  one. 

The  sincere  are  always  esteemed. 

Have  the  goods  been  sold  to  advantage  ?  and 
didst  thou  embrace  the  proper  season  ? 

There  are  many  occasions  in  life,  in  which  si- 
lence and  simplicity  are  true  wisdom. 

The  generous  never  recount  minutely  the  ac- 
tions they  have  done  ;  nor  the  prudent,  those  they 

will  do. 

He  needs  not  proceed  in  such  haste. 

The  business  that  related  to  ecclesiastical  meet- 
ings, matters,  and  persons,  was  to  be  ordered  ac- 
cording to  the  king's  direction. 

In  him  was  happily  blended  true  dignity  with 
softness  of  manners. 

The  support  of  so  many  of  his  relations,  was  a 
heavy  tax  upon  his  industry  ;  but  thou  knoivest, 
he  paid  it  cheerfully. 

What  avail  the  best  sentiments,  if  persons  do 
not  live  suitably  to  them? 

.Reconciliation  was  offered,  on  conditions  as  mod- 
erate as  ivere  consistent  with  a  permanent  union. 

Not  one  of  them  whom  thou  seest  clothed  in 
purple,  is  completely  happy. 

And  the  fame  of  this  person,  and  of  his  wonder- 
ful actions,  was  diffused  throughout  the  country. 

The  variety  of  the  productions  of  genius,  like 
that  of  the  operations  of  nature,  is  without  limit. 

In  vain  our  flocks  and  fields  increase  our  store. 
When  our  abundance  makes  us  wish  for  more. 

Thou  shonldstlove  thy  neighbor  as  sincerely  as 
thou  lovest  thyself. 

Hast  thou  no  better  reason  for  censuring  thy 
friend  and  companion  ? 

Thou,  who  art  the  Author  and  Bestower  of  life, 
doubtless  restore  it  also  :  but  whether  thou 


20  KEY.  fRule  I. 

wilt  please  to  restore  it,  or  not,  that    thou  only 
knoivest. 

"  0  thou  my  voice  inspire, 
"Who  touch'd  Isaiah's  hallowed  lips  with  fire. 
«  Whotouchedsiov  didst  touch." 

Accept  these  grateful  tears  :  for  thee  they  flow  5 
For  thee  that  ever  felt  another's  wo. 
"  didst  feel." 

Just  to  thy  word,  in  ev'ry  thought  sincere  ; 
Who  knew  no  wish  but  what  the  world  might  hear. 
66  W]\Q  knewest  or  didst  know." 

The  following  examples  are  adapted  to  the  notes 
and  observations  under  RULE  1. 

Grammar,  p.  139.     Exercises,  p.  50. 

1.  To  do  unto  all  men,  as  we  would  that  they, 
in  similar  circumstances,  should  do  unto  us,  consti- 
tutes the  great  principle  of  virtue. 

From  a  fear  of  the  world's  censure,  to  be  asham- 
ed of  the  practice  of  precepts  which  the  heart  ap- 
proves and  embraces,  marks  a  feeble  and  imper- 
fect character. 

The  erroneous  opinions  which  we  form  concer- 
ning happiness  and  misery, give  rise  to  all  the  mis- 
taken and  dangerous  passions  that  embroil  our  life. 

To  live  soberly,  righteously,  and  piously,  is  re- 
quired of  all  men. 

That  it  is  our  duty  to  promote  the  purity  of  our 

minds  and  bodies,   to   be  just  and  kind  to   our 

fellow- creatures,  and   to  be  pious  and  faithful  to 

,Him  that  made  us,  admits  not  of  any  doubt  in  a 

rational  and  well-informed  mind. 

To  be  of  a  pure  and  humble  mind,  to  exercise 
benevolence  towards  others,  to  cultivate  piety  to- 
wards God,  are  the  sure  means  of  becoming  peace- 
ful and  happy. 

It  is  an  important  truth,  that  religion,  vital  reli- 
gion, the  religion  of  the  heart,  is  the  most  powerful 


Rule  i.J  SYNTAX.  21 

auxialiary  of  reason,  in  waging  war  with  the 
passions,  and  promoting  that  sweet  composure 
which  constitutes  the  peace  of  God. 

The  possession  of  our  senses  entire,  of  our  limbs 
uninjured,  of  a  sound  understanding,  of  friends 
and  companigns,  is  often  overlooked  ;  though  it 
would  be  the  ultimate  wish  of  many,  who,  as  far  as 
we  can  judge,  deserve  ii&$  much  as  ourselves. 

All  that  makes  a  figure  on  the  great  theatre  of 
the  world,  the  employments  of  the  busy,  the  enter- 
prises of  the  ambitious,  and  the  exploits  of  the 
warlike ;  the  virtues  which  form  the  happiness, 
and  the  crimes  which  occasion  the  misery  of  man- 
kind ;  originate  in  that  silent  and  secret  recess  of 
thought,  which  is  hidden  from  every  human  eye. 

2.  If  the  privileges  to  which  he  has  an  undoubt- 
ed right,  and  which  he  has  long  enjoyed,  should 
now  be  wrested  from  him,  it  would  be  flagrant  in- 
justice. 

These  curiosities  we  have  imported  from  China, 
and  they  are  similar  to  those  which  were  some 
time  ago  brought  from  Africa. 

Will  martial  flames  for  ever  fire  thy  mind. 
And  wilt  thou  never  be  to  heav'n  resigned  ? 

3.  When  two  substantives  come  together,  and 
do  not  signify  the  same   thing,  the  first  of  them 
must  be  in  the  genitive  case. 

Such  is  the  constitution  of  men,  that  virtue, 
however  it  may  be  neglected  for  a  time,  will  ulti- 
mately be  acknowledged  and  respected. 

4.  The  crown  of  virtue  are  peace  and  honour. 
His  chief  occupation  and  enjoyment  was  contro- 
versy. 

5- He  destroyed, 

Or  won  to  what  may  work  his  utter  loss, 
All  this  will  soon  follow. 

Whose  £ray  top 

Shall  tremble,  he  descending. 


S3  KEY,  {Rule  1. 

RULE    II. 

Grammar  page  143.    Exercises,  page  52. 

Idleness  and  ignorance  are  the  parents  of  ma- 
ny vices. 

Wisdom,  Virtue,  happiness,  dwell  with  the  gol- 
den mediocrity. 

In  unity  consist  the  welfare  and  security  of  eve- 
ry  society. 

Time  and  tide  wait  for  no  man, 

His  politeness  and  good  disposition  -were,  oil 
failure  of  their  effect,  entirely  changed. 

Patience  and  diligence,  like  faith,  remove 
mountains* 

Humility  and  knowledge,  with  poor  apparel, 
excel  pride  and  ignorance  under  costly  attire. 

The  planetary  system,  boundless  space?  and  the 
immense  ocean,  affect  the  mind  with  sensations  of 
astonishment. 

Humility  and  love,  whatever  obscurities  may 
involve  religious  tenets,  constitute  the  essence  of 
true  religion. 

Religion  and  virtue,  our  best  support  and  high- 
est honour,  confer  on  the  mind  principles  of  noble 
independence. 

What  signify  the  counsel  and  care  of  preceptors, 
when  youth  think  they  have  no  need  of  assistance? 

The  examples  which  follow  are  suited  to  the  notes 
and  observations  under  IUJLE  n. 

Grammar,  p.  144.     Exercises,  p.  53. 

1.  Much  do  human  pride  and  self-complacency 
require  correction. 

Luxurious  living,  arid  high  pleasures,  beget  a 
languor  and  satiety  that  destroy  all  enjoyment. 

Pride  and  self-sufficiency  stifle  sentiments  of  de- 
pendence on  our  Creator ;  levity  and  attachment 


Rule  %.J  SYNTAX.  23 

to  worldly  pleasures,  destroy  the  sense  of  grati- 
tude to  him. 

2.  Good  order  in  our  affairs,  not  mean  savings, 
produces  great  profits. 

The  following  treatise,  together  with  those  that 
accompany  it,  was  written,  many  years  ago,  for 
my  own  private  satisfaction. 

That  great  senator,  in  concert  with  several  other 
eminent  persons,  was  the  projector  of  the  revolu- 
tion. 

The  religion  of  these  people,  as  well  as  their 
customs  and  manners,  was  strangely  misrepresent- 
ed. 

Virtue,  joined  to  knowledge  and  wealth,  confers 
great  influence  and  respectability.  But  knowledge, 
with  wealth  united,  if  virtue  is  wanting,  has  a  very 
limited  influence,  and  is  often  despised. 

That  superficial  scholar  and  critic,  like  some 
renowned  critics  of  our  own,  has  furnished  most 
decisive  proofs,  that  he  knew  not  the  characters 
of  the  Hebrew  language. 

The  buildings  of  the  institution  have  been  en- 
larged ;  the  expense  of  which,  added  to  the  in- 
creased price  of  provisions,  renders  it  necessary  to 
advance  the  terms  of  admission. 

One,  added  to  nineteen,  makes  twenty. — Better 
thus  :  one  and  nineteen  make  twenty. 

What  black  despair,  what  horror,  Jill  his  mind  ! 

8.  Thou  and  the  gardener,  and  the  huntsman, 
jnust  share  the  blame  of  this  business  among  you. 

My  sister  and  I,  as  well  as  my  brother,  are  dair 
ly  employed  in  our  respective  occupations. 

RULE    III. 

Grammar,  p.  146.    Exercises,  p.  54' 
Man's   happiness,   or  misery,   z>,   in  a  great 
measure,  put  into  his  own  hands. 


3. 

Man  is  not  such  a  machine  as  a  clock  or  a 
which  moves  merely  as  it  is  moved. 

Pespiseno  infirmity  of  mind  or  body,  nor  any  con- 
<  dition  of  life:  for  it  is,  perhaps,  to  be  your  own  lot. 

Speaking  impatiently  to  servants,  or  any  thing 
that  betrays  inattention  or  ilL  humour,  is  certainly 
criminal. 

There  are  many  faults  in  spelling,  which  nei- 
ther analogy  nor  pronunciation  justifies. 

When  sickness,  infirmity,  or  reverse  of  fortune, 
affects  us,  the  sincerity  or  friendship  is  proved. 

Let  it  be  remembered,  that  it  is  not  the  uttering, 
or  the  hearing  of  certain  words,  that  constitutes 
the  worship  of  the  Almighty. 

A  tart  reply,  a  proneness  to  rebuke,  or  a  captious 
and  contradictious  spirit,  is  capable  of  imbittering 
domestic  life,  and  of  setting  friends  at  variance. 
The  following  sentences  exemplify  the  notes  and 
observations  under  RULE  in. 
Grammar,  p.  146     Exercises,  p.  54. 

1.  Either  thou  orla??i  greatly  mistaken,  in  our 
judgment  on  this  subject . 

I  or  thou  art  the  person  who  must  undertake 
the  business  proposed. 

2.  One  or  both  of  the  scholars,  were  present  at 
the  transaction. 

Some  parts  of  the  ship  and  cargo  were  recovered ; 
but  neither  the  captain,  nor  the  sailors,  were  saved. 

Whether  one  person  or  more  than  one,  were 
concerned  in  the  business,  does  not  yet  appear. 

The  deceitfulness  of  riches,  or  the  cares  of  this 
life,  have  choked  the  seeds  of  virtue  in  many  a 
promising  mind. 

RULE    IV. 
Grammar,  p.  147.      Exercises,  p.  55. 

The  people  rejoice  in  that  which  should  give 
them  sorrow. 


Hide  %,}  SYNTAX.  S3 

The  flock,  and  not  the  fleece,  is  or  ought  to  be, 
the  object  of  the  shepherd's  care. 

The  court  has  just  ended,  after  having  sat 
through  the  trial  of  a  very  long  cause. 

The  crowd  ivas  so  great,  that  the  judges  with 
difficulty  made  their  way  through  it. 

The  corporation  of  York  consists  of  a  mayor, 
aldermen,  and  a  common  council, 

The  British  parliament  is  composed  of  king, 
lords,  and  commons. 

When  the  nation  complains,  the  rulers  should 
listen  to  its  voice. 

In  the  days  of  youth,  the  multitude  eagerly 
pursue  pleasure  ^s  their  chief  good. 

The  church  has  no  power  to  inflict  corporal 
punishijient, 

The  fleet  was  seen  sailing  up  the  channel, 

The  regiment  consists  of  a  thousand  men. 

The  meeting  has  established  several  salutary 
regulations. 

The  council  were  not  unanimous,  and  they  sep- 
arated without  coming  to  any  determination. 

The  fleet  are  all  arrived  and  moored  in  safety. 

These  people  draw  near  to  me  with  their 
mouth  and  honour  me  with  their  lips,  but  their 
heart  is  far  from  me, 

The  committee  were  divided  in  their  sentiments, 
and  they  have  referred  the  business  to  the  general 
meeting. 

The  committee  was  very  full  when  this  point 
was  decided  5  and  its  judgment  has  not  been  call- 
ed in  question. 

Why  does  this  generation  wish  for  greater  evi- 
dence, when  so  much  is  already  given. 

The  remnant  of  the  people  was  persecuted  with 
great  severity. 

Never  was  any  people  so  much  infatuated  as 
the  Jewish  nation.  D 


~6  KEY,  {Rule  5. 

The  shoal  of  herrings  was  of  an  immense  extent. 
JVo  society  is  chargeable  with  the  disapproved 
misconduct  of  particular  members. 

RULE  v. 
Grammar,  p.  148.      Exercises,  p.  57. 

The  exercise  of  reason  appears  as  little  in  these 
sportsmen,  as  in  the  beasts  which  they  sometimes 
hunt,  and  by  which  they  are  sometimes  hunted. 

They  who  seek  wisdom  will  certainly  find  her. 

The  male  amongst  birds  seems  to  discover  no 
beauty,  but  in  the  colour  of  his  species. 

Take  handfuls  of  ashes  of  the  furnace,  and  let 
Moses  sprinkle  them  towards  heaven,  in  the  sight 
of  Pharaoh;  and  they  shall  become  small  dust. 

Hebecca  took  goodly  raiment,  which  was  with 
her  in  the  house,  and  put  it  upon  Jacob. 

The  wheel  killed  another  man,  icho  is  the  sixth 
that  has  lost  his  life,  by  this  means. 

The  fair  sex,  whose  task  is  not  to  mingle  in 
the  labours  of  public  life,  have  their  own  part  as- 
signed them  to  act. 

The  Hercules  ship  of  war  foundered  at  sea ; 
she  overset,  and  lost  most  of  her  men. 

The  mind  of  man  cannot  be  long  without  some 
food  to  nourish  the  activity  of  its  thoughts. 

What  is  the  reason  that  our  language  is  less  re- 
fined than  that  of  Italy,  Spain,  or  France  ? 

I  do  not  think  any  one  should  incur  censure  for 
being  tender  of  his  reputation, 

Thou  who  hast  been  a  witness  of  the  fact,  canst 
give  an  account  of  it. 

In  religious  concerns,  or  those  which  are  con- 
ceived to  be  such,  every  man  must  stand  or  fall  by 
the  decision  of  the  Great  Judge. 

Something  like  what  has  been  here  premised, 
is  the  conjecture  of  Bryden, 


Rule.  5.J  SYNTAX.  &7 

Thou  great  First  Cause,  least  understood ! 

Who  all  my  sense  confiVd 
To  know  but 'this  that  thou  art  good. 

And  that  myself  am  blind  : 
Yet  gave  me  in  this  dark  estate,  &c. 
"  Confinedst  or  didst  confine  :"   "  Gcivest  or  didst  give" 
What  art  thou,  speak,  that,  or  designs  unknown. 
While  others  sleep,  thus  range  the  camp  alone. 
"  Rangest  or  didst  range." 

The  following  examples  are  adapted  to  the  notes 

and  observations  under  RULE  v. 

Grammar,  p.  149.     Exercises,  p.  58. 

1.  Whoever  entertains  such  an  opinion,  judges 
erroneously* 

The  cares  of  this  world  often  choke  the  growth 
of  virtue. 

Disappointments  and  afflictions,  however  disa- 
greeable, often  improve  us. 

2.  Moses  was  the' meekest  man  that  we  read  of  in 
the  Old  Testament. 

Humility  is  one  of  the  most  amiable  virtues  that 
we  can  possess. 

They  are  the  same  persons  that  assisted  us  yes- 
terday. 

The  men  and  things  that  he  has  studied  have  not 
improved  his  morals. 

3.  How  beautiful  soever  they  appear,  they  have 
no  real  merit. 

In  ivhat  light  soever  we  view  him,  his  conduct 
will  bear  inspection. 

On  which  side  soever  they  are  contemplated,  they 
appear  to  advantage. 

How  much  soever  he  might  despise  the  maxima 
of  the  king's  administration,  he  kept  a  total  silence 
on  that  subject. 

4.  Which  of  those  two  persons  has  most  distin- 
guished himself  ? 

None  more  impatiently  suffer  injuries,  t\\&nthey 
who  are  most  forward  in  doing  them. 


S8  KEY.  (Rule  5. 

5.  He  would  not  be  persuaded  that  I  was  not 
greatly  in  fault. 

These  commendations  of  his  children,  appear  to 
have  been  made  in  a  manner  irliich  is  in  some  res- 
pects injudicious :  or,  appear  to  be  in  some  res- 
pects, injudicious. 

6.  He  instructed  and  fed  the  crowds  that  surroun- 
ded him. 

Sidney  was  one  of  the  wisest  &  most  active  gov- 
ernors, that  Ireland  had  enjoyed  for  several  years. 

He  was  the  ablest  minister  that  James  ever  pos- 
sessed. 

The  court,  which  gives  currency  to  manners, 
ought  to  be  exemplary. 

I  am  happy  in  the  friend  whom  I  have  long  proved. 

7-  The  child  that  we  have  just  seen,  is  wholesome- 
ly fed,  and  not  injured  by  bandages  or  clothing. 
He  is  like  a  beast  of  prey,  that  destroys  without  pity. 

8.  Having  once  disgusted  him,  he  could  never  re- 
gain the  favour  of  Nero,  whose  name  was  but  an- 
other word  for  cruelty. 

Flattery,  the  nature  of  which  is  to  deceive  and  be- 
tray, should  be  avoided  as  the  poisonous  adder. 
Which  of  those  men  came  to  his  assistance  ? 

9.  The  king,  who  had  never  before  committed  so 
unjust  an  action,  dismissed  his  minister  without 
any  inquiry. 

There  are  in  the  empire  of  China,  millions  of  peo- 
ple, whose  support  is  derived  almost  entirely  from 
rice. 

10.  His  continual  endeavours  to  serve  us,  notwith- 
standing our  ingratitude,  are  remarkable.     Or — It 
is  remarkable  that  he  is  continually  endeavouring 
to  serve  us,  notwithstanding  our  ingratitude. 

His  assertion,  though  paradoxical,  is  indisputa- 
bly true. 

11.  Ah  !  unhappy  thou  who  art  deaf  to  the  calls 
of  duty  and  of  honour. 

Oh !  happy  us,  surrounded  with  so  many  blessings. 


Rule  Q.j  SYNTAX.  £9 

RULE   VI. 
Grammar,  p.  153.    Exercises,  p.  60. 

We  are  dependent  on  each  other's  assistance  t 
who  is  there  that  can  subsist hy  himself? 

If  he  will  not  hear  his  best  friend,  who  shall  be 
sen!  to  admonish  him  ? 

.They,  to  whom  much  is  given,  will  have  much 
to  answer  for. 

It  is  not  to  be  expected  that  they,  who,  in  early 
life,  have  been  dark  and  deceitful,  should  after- 
wards become  fair  and  ingenuous. 

They  who  have  laboured  to  make  us  wise  and 
good,  are  the  persons  whom  we  ought  to  love  and 
respect,  and  to  whom  we  ought  to  be  grateful. 

The  persons,  whom  conscience  and  virtue  sup- 
port, may  smile  at  the  caprices  of  fortune. 

From  the  character  of  those  with  whom  you  as- 
sociate, your  own  will  be  estimated. 

That  is  the  student  to  whom  I  gave  the  book, 
andw/to,!  am  persuaded,  deserves  it. 

i.  Of  whom  were  the  articles  bought  ?  Of  a 
mercer ;  him  who  resides  near  the  mansion  house. 

Was  any  person  besides  the  mercer  present  ? 
Yes,  both  he  and  his  clerk. 

To  whom  wras  the  money  paid  ?  To  the  mercer 
and  his  clerk. 

Who  counted  it  ?  Both  the  clerk  and  he* 

IBULE    VII. 
Grammar,  p.  155     Exercises,  p.  61. 

I  acknowledge  that  I  am  the  teacher,  who  adopt 
that  sentiment,  and  maintain  the  propriety  of  such 
measures.  Or — that  1,  who  adopt  that  sentiment^ 
and  maintain,  &c. 

Thou  art  a  friend  that  has  often  relieved  me, 
and  that  has  not  deserted  me  now  in  the  time  of 

D  2 


30  KEY.  f  Rules  ?,  Q. 

peculiar  need.  Or — tlion  wlw  hast  often  reliei'ed 
me,  andwho  hast  not,  &c. 

I  am  the  man  who  approves  of  wholesome  dis- 
cipline, and  who  recommends  it  to  others  ;  but  I 
am  not  a  person  who  promotes  useless  severity, 
or  wrho  objects  to  mild  and  generous  treatment. 

I  perceive  that  thou  art  a  pupil,  who  possesses 
bright  parts,  but  who  has  cultivated  them  but  little. 

Thou  art  he  who  breathes  on  the  earth  with  the 
breath  of  spring,  and  who  covers  it  with  verdure 
and  beauty. 

I  am  the  Lord  thy  God,  who  teaches  thee  to  pro- 
fit, and  who  leads  thee  by  the  way  thou  shouldst  go. 

Thou  art  the  Lord  who  didst  choose  Abraham, 
and  broughtest  him  forth  out  of  Ur  of  the  Chal- 
dees.  Or — Thou  who  didst  choose  Abraham,  &c. 

RULE    VIII. 

Grammar  page  156.     Exercises,  page  61. 
This  kind  of  indulgence  softens  and  injures  the 
mind. 

Instead  of  improving  yourselves,  you  have  been 
playing  these  two  hours. 

That  sort  of  favours  did  real  injury,  under  the 
appearance  of  kindness. 

The  chasm  made  by  the  eai  thquake  was  twenty 
feet  broad,  and  one  hundred  fathoms  in  depth. 

How  many  sorrows  should  we  avoid,  if  we 
were  not  industrious  to  make  them  ! 

He  saw  one  person  or  more  than  one,  enter  the 
garden, 

The  examples  which  follow  are  suited  to  the  notes" 

and  observations  under  RULE  vm. 

Grammar,  p.  156.     Exercises,  p.  62. 

1.   ADJECTIVE  PRONOUNS. 

1.  Charles  was  extravagant,  and,  bvthis  means, 
became  poor  and  despicable. 


Rule  S.j  KEY..  31 

It  was  by  that  ungenerous  means  that  he  ob- 
tained his  end. 

Industry  is  the  means  of  obtaining  competency. 

Though  a  promising  measure,  it  is  a  means 
which  I  cannot  adopt. 

This  person  embraced  every  opportunity  to  d's- 
play  his  talents  ;  and  by  this  means  rendered  him- 
self ridiculous. 

Joseph  was  industrious,  frugal,  and  discreet;  and 
by  these  means  obtained  property  and  reputation. 
2.  Religion  raises  men  above  themselves  ;  irre- 
ligion  sinks  them  beneath  the  brutes  ;  this,  binds 
them  down  to  a  poor  pitiable  speck  of  perishable 
earth;  that,  opens  to  them  a  prospect  to  the  skies. 

More  rain  falls  in  the  first  two  summer  months, 
than  in  the  first  two  winter  ones  :  but  it  makes  a 
much  greater  show  upon  the  earth  in  these  than  in 
those  ;  because  there  is  a  much  slower  evaporation. 

Ilex  and  Tyrannus  are  of  very  different  char- 
acters. The  one  rules  his  people  by  laws  to  which 
they  consent ;  the  other,  by  his  absolute  will  and 
power  :  that  is  called  freedom,  this,  tyranny. 

3.  Each  of  them,  in  his  turn,  receives  the  ben- 
efits to  which  he  is  entitled. 

My  counsel  to  each  of  you  is,  that  he  make  it  his 
endeavour  to  come  to  a  friendly  agreement. 

By  discussing  what  relates  to  each  particular,  in 
its  order,  we  shall  better  understand  the  subject. 

livery  person,  whatever  be  his  station,  is  bound 
by  the  duties  of  morality  and  religion. 

Every  leaf,  every  twig,  every  drop  of  water, 
teems  with  life. 

Every  man's  heart  and  temper  are  productive 
<)f  much  inwrard  joy  or  bitterness. 

Whatever  he  undertakes,  either  his  pride  or  his 
folly  disgusts  us. 


§2  KEY.  (-Rule  8. 

Every  man  and  every  woman  was  numbered.* 
Neither  of  those  men  seems  to  have  any  idea, 
that  his  opinions  may  be  ill-founded. 

When  benignity  and  gentleness  reign  within, 
we  are  always  least  in  hazard  from  without :  eve- 
ry person,  and  every  occurrence,  is  beheld  in  the 
most  favourable  light. 
On  each  side  of  the  river  was  there  the  tree  of  life. 

II.    ADJECTIVES. 

4.  She  reads  properly,  writes  very  neatly,  and 
composes  accurately. 

He  was  extremely  prodigal,  and  his  property  is 
now  nearly  exhausted. 

They  generally  succeeded ;  for  they  lived  con- 
formably to  the  rules  of  prudence. 

We  may  reason  very  clearly,  and  exceeding 
strongly,   without  knowing  that  there  is  such  a 
thing  as  a  syllogism. 
He  had  many  virtues,  &  was  exceedingly  beloved. 

The  amputation  was  exceedingly  well  perform- 
ed, and  saved  the  patient's  life. 

He  came  agreeably  to  his  promise,  and  conduct- 
ed  himself  suitably  to  the  occasion. 

He  speaks  VQYV  fluently,  and  reads  excellently  ; 
but  he  does  not  think  very  coherently. 

*The  copulative  conjunction,  in  this  instance,  makes  no 
difference  with  regard  to  the  verb.  All  the  men  and  wo- 
men are  referred  to  separately  and  individually :  the 
verb  must  therefore  have  the  same  construction  as  it  has 
in  this  sentence  :  "Every  one  of  the  men  and  women  was 
numbered."  The  subject  may  be  further  illustrated,  by  the 
following  sentences  :•  "  Every  good  gift,  and  every  perfect 
gift,  is  from  above,  and  cometh  down  from  the  Father  of 
lights."  "  It  is  the  original  cause  of  every  reproach  &  dis- 
tress which  7ms  attended  the  government.""  JUNIUS. — This 
construction  forms  an  exception  to  the  second  Rule  of  Syntax. 

Another  exception  to  this  second  rule,  is  when  a  copulative 
conjunction  connects  two  or  more  nouns,  which  refer  to  the 
same  person  or  thing ;  as,  "  That  able  scholar  and  critic  has 
&een  eminently  useful/' 


Rule  8.J  SYNTAX.  33 

He  behaved  himself  submissively,  and  was  ex- 
ceedingly careful  not  to  give  offence. 

They  rejected  the  advice,  and  conducted  them- 
selves exceeding  indiscreetly. 

He  is  a  person  of  great  abilities,  and  exceedingly 
upright :  and  is  likely  to  be  a  very  useful  member 
of  the  community. 

The  conspiracy  was  the  more  easily  discover- 
ed, from  its  being  known  to  many. 

Not  being  fully  acquainted  with  the  subject,  he 
could  not  affirm  more  strongly  than  he  did. 

He  was  so  deeply  impressed  with  the  subject, 
that  few  could  speak  more  nobly  upon  it. 

We  may  credit  his  testimony,  for  he  says  ex- 
pressly, that  he  saw  the  transaction. 

Use  a  little  wine  for  thy  stomach's  sake,  and 
thy  frequent  infirmities. 

From  these  favourable  beginnings,  we  may 
hope  for  a  speedy  and  prosperous  issue. 

He  addressed  several  exhortations  to  them  suit- 
able to  their  circumstances. 

Conformable  to  their  vehemence  of  thought,  was 
their  vehemence  of  gesture. 

We  should  implant  in  the  minds  of  youth,  such 
seeds  and  principles  of  piety  and  virtue,  as  are 
likely  to  take  the  earliest  and  deepest  root. 

A  disposition  so  amiable  will  secure  universal 
regard. 

Virtues  so  distinguished  seldom  occur. 

5.  It  is  easier  to  build  two  chimneys  than  to 
maintain  one. 

The  tongue  is  like  a  race-horse  ;  which  runs 
the  faster  the  less  weight  it  carries. 

The  pleasures  of  the  understanding  are  pref- 
erable to  those  of  the  imagination,  or  of  sense. 

The  nightingale  sings :  hers  is  the  sweetest 
voice  in  the  grove. 

The  Most  High  hath  created  us  for  his  glory, 
and  our  own  happiness. 


84  KEY.  (Rule  8. 

The  Supreme  Being  is  the  wisest,  the  most 
powerful,  and  the  best  of  beings. 

6.  Virtue  confers  supreme  dignity  on  man ;  and 
should  be  his  chief  desire. 

His  assertion  was  better  founded  than  that  of  his 
opponent ;  nay,  the  words  of  the  latter  were  nottrue. 

His  work  is  well  executed  ;  his  brother's  still 
better  ;  and  his  father's  the  best  of  all. 

He  gave  a  full  and  sincere  proof  of  true  friend- 
ship. Or — He  gave  the  strongest  proof  of -warm 
and  genuine  friendship. 

7-  A  talent  of  this  kind  would,  perhaps,  prove 
the  likeliest  of  all  to  succeed.  Or — prove  more 
likely  than  any  other  to  succeed. 

He  is  the  stronger  of  the  two,  but  not  the  wiser. 

He  spoke  with  so  much  propriety,  that  I  under- 
stood him  the  best  of  all  who  spoke  on  the  subject. 
Oi^-betterthan  any  other  w"ho  spoke  on  the  subject. 

Eve  was  fairer  than  any  of  her  daughters. 

8  He  spoke  in  a  manner  distinct  enough  to  be 
heard  by  the  whole  assembly.  Or— Hie  spoke  dis- 
tinctly enough  to  be  heard  by  the  whole  assembly. 

Thomas  is  equipped  with  a  pair  of  new  shoes, 
and  a  pair  of  new  gloves  :  he  is  the  servant  of  a 
rich  old  man. 

The  first  two  in  the  row  are  cherry-trees,  the 
oilier  two  are  pear  trees. 

RULE    IX. 

Grammar.  p»  166.    Exercises,  p.  66- 

Fire,  air,  earth,  and  water,  are  the  four  ele- 
ments of  philosophers. 

Jieason  was  given  to  man  to  control  his  passions. 

We  have  within  us  an  intelligent  principle, 
distinct fromthe  body  and  from  matter. 

Man  is  the  noblest  work  of  the  creation. 

The  wisest and  the  best -men  sometimes  commit 
errors* 


Rule  Q<J  SYNTAX.  35 

Beware  of  drunkenness  :  it  impairs  the  under- 
standing ;  wastes  the  estate ;  destroys  reputation ; 
consumes  the  body ;  and  renders  a  man  of  the 
brightest  parts  a  common  jest  of  the  meanest  clown* 

He  is  a  much  better  writer  than  reader. 

The  king  has  conferred  on  him  the  title  of  duke. 

There  are  some  evils  of  life,  which  equally  af- 
fect the  prince  and  the  people. 

We  must  act  our  part  with  constancy,  though 
the  reward  of  our  constancy  be  distant. 

We  are  placed  here  under  the  trial  of  our  virtue. 

Virtues  like  his  are  not  easily  acquired.  Such 
qualities  honour  the  nature  of  man. 

Purity  has  its  seat  in  the  heart ;  but  extends  its 
influence  over  so  much  of  the  outward  conduct*  as 
to  form  a  great  and  material  part  of  the  character. 

A  profligate  man  is  seldom  or  never  found  to  be 
a  good  husband,  a  good  father,  or  a  beneficent 
neighbor. 

True  charity  is  not  a  meteor,  which  occasionaly 
glares ;  but  a  luminary,  which,  in  its  orderly  and 
regular  course,  dispenses  a  benignant  influence. 

The  following  sentences  exemplify  the  notes  and 

observations  under  RULE  ix. 

Grammar,  p.  168.     Exercises,  p.  67. 

1.  He  has  been  much  censured  for  conducting 
himself  with  little  attention  to  his  business. 

So  bold  a  breach  of  order,  called  for  a  little  ser 
verity  in  punishing  the  offender. 

His  error  was  accompanied  with  so  little  contri- 
tion and  candid  acknowledgment,  that  he  found 
few  persons  to  intercede  for  him. 

There  were  so  many  mitigating  circumstances 
attending  his  misconduct,  particularly  that  of  his 
open  confession,  that  he  found  a  few  friends  who 
were  disposed  to  interest  themselves  in  his  favour. 

As  his  misfortunes  were  the  fruit  of  Ms  own  ob* 
stinacy,  few  persons  pitied  him* 


39  KEY. 

2.  The  fear  of  shame,  and  the  desire  of  appro- 
bation,  prevent  many  bad  actions. 

In  this  business  he  was  influenced  by  a  just  and 
a  generous  principle. 

He  was  fired  with  the  desire  of  doing  some- 
thing,  though  he  knew  not  yet,  with  distinctness, 
either  the  end  or  the  means, 

3.  At  the  worst,  I  could  but  incur  a  gentle  repri- 
mand, 

At  the  best,  his  gift  was  but  a  poor  offering, 
when  we  consider  his  estate, 

RULE  x. 
Grammar,  p.  169.     Exercises,  p.  67. 

My  ancestor's  virtue  is  not  mine. 

His  brother's  offence  \vill  not  condemn  him. 

I  will  not  destroy  the  city  for  ten's  sake. 

Nevertheless,  .Asa's  heart  was  perfect  with  the 
Lord. 

A  mother's  tenderness  and  a  father's  care,  are 
nature's  gifts  for  man's  advantage. 
A  man's  manners  frequently  influence  his  fortune, 

Wisdom's  precepts  form  the  good  man's  inter- 
est and  happiness. 
They  slew  Varus,  him  that  was  mentioned  before. 

They  slew  Varus,  who  was  he  that  I  mention  - 
ed  before. 

The  following  examples  are  adapted  to  the  notes 
and  observations  under  RUJ.E  x. 
Grammar,  p.  170.    Exercises,  p.  68. 
i.  It  was  the  men,  women,  and  children's  lot,  to 
suffer  great  calamities.     Or — It  was  the  lot  of,  &c. 
Peter,  John,  and  Andrew's  occupation,  was  that 
of  fishermen.  Or—The  occupation  of  Peter,  &c. 

This  measure  gained  the  king's  as  wrell  as  the 
people's  approbation. 

Not  only  the  counsel  &  attorney's,  but  the  judge's, 
opinion  also  favoured  his  cause.  Or— counsel  and 
attorney's  opinion,  but  the  judge's  ylso;  &c. 


Rule  iQ.J  SYNTAX.  87 

g.  And  he  cast  himself  down  at  Jesus' s  feet. 
Moses's  rod  was  turned  into  a  serpent. 
For  Herodias's  sake,  his  brother  Philip's  wife. 
If  ye  suffer  for  righteousness'  sake,  happy  are  ye. 
Ye  should  be  subject  for  conscience'  sake. 

3.  They  very  justly  condemned  the  senseless  and 
extravagant  conduct  of  the  prodigal,  as  he  was  called. 

They  implicitly  obeyed  the  imperious  mandates 
of  him  whom  they  called  their  protector. 

4.  I  bought  the  knives  at  Johnson's,  the  cutler. 
The  silk  was  purchased  at  Brown's  the  mercer 

and  haberdasher, 

The  tent  of  lord  Feversham  the  general, 
This  palace  had  been  the  grand  sultan  Mahomet's, 

I  will  not  for  David  thy  father's  sake. 

He  took  refuge  at  the  governor's,  the  king's  rep- 
resentative, 

Whose  works  are  these?  They  are  Cicero's, 
the  most  eloquent  of  men. 

5.  The  government  of  the  world  is  not  left  to 
chance. 

She  married  the  brother  of  my  son's  wife.  Or — t 
my  son's  brother-in-law. 

This  house  belongs  to  the  partner  of  my  wife's 
brother. 

It  was  necessary  to  have  the  advice  both  of  the 
physician  and  the  surgeon. 

The  extent  of  the  king  of  England's  preroga- 
tive is  sufficiently  ascertained. 

6.  This  picture  of  the  king  does  not  much  re- 
semble him. 

These  pictures  of  the  king's  were  sent  to  him  from 
Italy.  Qr-Thesepicturesbelongingto  the  king,  &c. 
This  estate  of  the  corporation  is  much  encum- 
bered. 

That  is  the  eldest  son  of  the  king  of  England. 
Or— >TAe  king  of  England's  eldest  son. 

E 


38  KEY,  (Rule  11. 

7.  What  can  be  the  cause  of  the  parliament's 
neglecting  so  important  a  business  ? 

Much  depends  on  this  rule's  being  observed, 

The  time  of  William's  making  the  experiment, 
at  length  arrived. 

It  is  very  probable  that  this  assembly  was  call- 
ed, to  clear  some  doubt  which  the  king  had,  about 
the  lawfulness  of  the  Hollander's  throwing  q^the 
'monarchy  of  Spain,  and  withdrawing,  entirely, 
their  allegiance  to  that  crown. 

If  we  alter  the  situation  of  any  of  the  words,  we 
shall  presently  be  sensible  of  the  melody's  suffering. 

Such  will  ever  be  the  effect  of  youth's  associa- 
ting with  vicious  companions. 

RULE  XI. 
Grammar,  p.  175.      Exercises,  p.  70. 

They  whom  opulence  has  made  proud,  biidwhom 
luxury  has  corrupted,  cannot   relish  the  simple 
~  pleasures  of  nature. 

You  have  reason  to  dread  his  wrath,  which  one 
day  will  destroy  you  both. 

Whom  have  I  reason  to  love  so  much  as  this 
friend  of  my  youth  ? 

You,  who  were  dead,  hath  he  quickened. 

Whom  did  they  entertain  so  freely  ? 

The  man  whom  he  raised  from  obscurity,  is  dead. 

Yon  only  have  I  known  of  all  the  families  of 
the  earth. 

Him  and  them  we  know,  but  who  are  you  ? 
Her  that  is  idle  and  mischievous,  reprove  sharply. 

Whom  did  they  send  to  him  on  so  important  an 
errand  ? 

That  is  the  friend  whom  you  must  receive  cor- 
dially, and  whom  you  cannot  esteem  too  highly, 

He  invited  my  brother  and  me  to  see  and  exam- 
ine his  library. 


Rule  ii.J  SYNf  AX.  39 

Him  who  committed  the  offence,  you  should 
correct,  not  me  who  am  innocent. 

We  should  fear  and  obey  the  Author  of  our  be- 
ing, even  Him  who  has  power  to  reward  or  pun- 
ish us  for  ever. 

Them  whom  he  had  most  injured,  he  had  the 
greatest  reason  to  love. 

Tlie  examples  which  follow  are  suited  to  the  notes 
and  observations  under  RULE  xi. 
Grammar,  p.  176.    Exercises,  p.  70. 

1.  Though  he  now  takes  pleasure  in  them,  he 
will  one  day  repent  of  indulgences  so  unwarrantable. 

The  nearer  his  virtues  approached  to  the  greai 
example  before  him,  the  humbler  he  grew. 

It  will  be  very  difficult  to  make  his  conduct 
agree  with  the  principles  he  professes. 

2.  To  ingratiate  ourselves  with  some,  by  tra- 
ducing others,  marks  a  base  and  despicable  mind. . 

I  shall  premise  two  or  three  general  observa- 
tions, 

8.  If  such  maxims,  and  such  practices  prevail^ 
what  is  become  of  decency  and  virtue  ? 

I  am  come  according  to  the  time  proposed  ;  but 
I  am  fallen  upon  an  evil  hour. 

The  mighty  rivals  have  now  at  length  agreed. 

The  influence  of  his  corrupt  example  had  then 
entirely  ceased. 

He  had  entered  into  the  connexion,  before  the 
consequences  were  considered. 

14.  Well  may  you  be  afraid ;  it  is  he  indeed. 
I  would  act  the  same  part  if  I   were  he,  or  in 
his  situation. 

Search  the  Scriptures ;  for  in  them  ye  think  ye  have 

eternal  life ;  and  they  are  they  which  testify  of  me, 

Be  composed :  it  is  /.-  you  have  no  cause  for  fear. 

I  cannot  tell  who  has  befriended  me,  unless  it  is 

he  from  whom  I  have  received  many  benefits. 


40  KEY.  {Rule  12. 

I  know  not  whether  they  were  the  persons  who 
conducted  the  business  but  I  am  certain  it  was  not  he. 

He  so  much  resembled  my  brother,  that,  at  first 
sight,  I  took  it  to  be  him. 

After  all  their  professions,  is  it  possible  to  be  they? 

It  could  not  have  been  she,  for  she  always  be- 
haves discreetly. 

If  it  was  not  he,  whom  do  you  imagine  it  to  have 
been  ? 

Whom  do  you  think  him  to  be  ? 

Who  do  the  people  say  that  we  are  ? 

5.  Whatever  others  do,  let  thee  and  me  act  wisely. 

Let  them  and  us  unite  to  oppose  this  growing  evil. 

RULE    XII. 
Grammar,  p.  178.     Exercises,  p.  72. 

It  is  better  to  live  on  a  little,  than  to  outlive  a 
great  deal. 

You  ought  not  to  walk  too  hastily. 

I  wish  him  not  to  wrestle  with  his  happiness. 

I  need  not  solicit  him  to  do  a  kind  action. 

I  dare  not  proceed  so  hastily,  lest  I  should  give 
offence. 

I  have  seen  some  young  persons  conduct  them- 
selves very  discreetly. 

The  fallowing  sentences  exemplify  the  notes  and 

observations  under  RULE  xn. 
Grammar  page  178.     Exercises,  page  72. 

It  is  a  great  support  to  virtue,  when  we  see  a 
good  mind  maintain  its  patience  and  traiiquility, 
under  injuries  and  affliction,  and  cordially  forgive 
its  oppressors. 

It  is  the  difference  of  their  conduct,  which  makes 
us  approve  the  one,  and  reject  the  other. 

We  should  not  be  like  many  persons,  icho  de- 
preciate the  virtues  they  do  not  possess. 

To  see  young  persons,  who  are  courted  by 
health  and  pleasure,  resist  all  the  allurements  of 


Bute.  13. )  SYNTAX.  41 

vice,,  and  steadily  pursue  virtue  and  knowledge,  is 
cheering  and  delightful  to  every  good  mind. 

They  acted  with  so  much  reserve,  that  some 
persons  doubted  their  sincerity. 

And  the  multitude  wondered,  when  they  saw 
the  persons  who  had  been  lame,  walking  ;  and 
those  who  had  been  blind,  seeing. 

RULE    XIII* 

Grammar,  p.  179.     Exercises,  p.  73* 

The  next  new  year's  day,  I  shall  have  been  at 
school  three  years. 

And  he  that  had  been  dead,  sat  up,  and  began 
to  speak. 

I  should  be  obliged  to  him,  if  lie  would  gratify  me 
in  that  particular. 

And  the  multitude  wondered,  when  they  heard 
the  persons  icho  had  been  dumb,  speaking  ;  when 
they  saw  those  who  had  been  maimed,  whole  ;  who  had 
been  lame,  walking;  and  who  had  been  blind  seeing. 

I  have  compassion  on  the  multitude,  because 
they  have  continued  with  me  now  three  days. 

In  the  treasury  belonging  to  the  Cathedral  in 
this  city,  has  been  preserved  with  the  greatest  ven- 
eration, for  upw ards  of  six  hundred  years,  a  dish 
which  they  pretend  to  be  made  of  emerald. 

The  court  of  Rome  gladly  laid  hold  on  all  the  op- 
portunities which  the  imprudence,  weakness,  or  ne- 
cessities of  piiucesyvffbrded  it,  to  extend  its  authority, 
Fierce  as  he  mores,  his  silver  shafts  resound. 

They  maintained  that  scripture  conclusion,  that 
all  mankind  have  risen  from  one  head. 

^  John  will  have  earned  his  wages  when  his  ser- 
vice shall  be  completed. 

Ye  will  not  come  unto  me,  that  ye  may  have  life,. 

Be  that  as  it  may,  he  cannot  justify  his  conduct. 
^  I  have  been  at  London  a  year,  and  I  saw  the 
king  last  summer. 

After  we  had  visited  London,  we  returned,  content 
and  thankful,  to  our  retired  &  peaceful  habitation. 


KEY,  fRule  i3. 

The  following  examples  are  adapted,  to  the  notes 

and  observations  under  RULE  xm. 

Grammar,  p.  81.     Exercises,  p.  74. 

1.  I  purpose  to  go  to  London  in  a,  few  months, 
and  after  I  shall  have  finished  my  business  there, 
to  proceed  to  America. 

These  prosecutions  of  William  seem  to  have 
been  the  most  iniquitous  measures  pursued  by  the 
court,  during  the  time  that  the  use  of  parliament 
\vas  suspended^ 

From  the  little  conversatiou  I  had  with  him,  he 
appeared  to  be  a  man  of  letters. 

I  always  intended  to  reward  my  son  according 
to  his.merit. 

It  would,  on  reflection,  have  given  me  great  sat- 
isfaction, to  have  relieved  him  from  that  distressed 
situation. 

It  required  soniucli  care,  that  I  thought  I  should 
lose  it  before  I  reached  home. 

We  have  done  no  more  than  it  was  our  duty  to  do. 

He  would  have  assisted  one  of  his  friends,  if  he 
could  have  done  it  without  inj  uring  the  other ;  but  as 
that  could  not  be  done,  he  avoided  all  interference. 

Jllighi  it  not  have  been  expected,  that  he  would 
defend  an  authority,  which  had  been  so  long  exer- 
cised without  controversy  ? 

These  enemies  of  Christianity  were  confound- 
ed, whilst  they  were  expecting  to  find  an  opportu- 
nity to  betray  its  author. 

His  sea  sickness  was  so  great,  that  I  often  fear- 
ed he  would  die  before  our  arrival. 

If  these  persons  had  intended  to  deceive,  they 
would  have  taken  care  to  avoid  what  would  have 
exposed  them  to  the  objections  of  their  opponents- 
It  was  a  pleasure  to  receive  his  approbation  of 
my  labours  ;  for  which  I  cordially  thanked  him. 

It  would  have  afforded  me  still  greater  pleasure, 
to  have  received  his  approbation  at  an  earlier 


Mule  i3.J  SYNTAX.  43 

period  :    but  to  have  received  it   at  all,  reflected 
credit  upon  me. 

To  have  been  censured  by  him,  would  soon  have 
proved  an  insuperable  discouragement. 

Him  portion'd  maids,  apprentic'd  orphans  blest, 
The  young  who  labour,  and  the  old  who  rest. 
"  Laboured  and  rested." 

The  Doctor,  in  his  lecture,  said,  that  fever  al- 
ways produces  thirst.* 

*  In  referring  to  declarations  of  this  nature,  the  present 
tense  must  be  used,  it' the  position  is  immutably  the  same  at 
all  times,  or  supposed  to  be  so  5  as,  "  The  bishop  declared, 
that  virtue  is  always  advantageous  :"  not,  "  was  always 
advantageous.'' — But  if  the  assertion  referred  to  something 
that  is  not  always  the  same,  or  supposed  to  be  so,  the  past 
tense  must  be  applied  :  as,  "  George  said,  that  he  was  very 
happy  :"  not,  "  is  very  happy."  The  following  sentences 
will  fully  exemplify,  to  the  young  grammarian,  both  the  parts 
of  this  rule.  "  He  declared  to  us,  that  he  ivas  afraid  of  no 
man  ;  because  conscious  innocense  gives  firmness  of  mind" 
— "  He  protested,  that  he  believed  what  ivas  said,  because  it 
appeared  to  him  probable." — "  Charles  asserted,  that  it  ivas 
his  opinion,  that  men  always  succeed*  when  they  use  precau- 
tion and  pains." — "  The  doctor  declared  to  his  audience*, 
that  if  virtue  suffers  some  pains,  she  is  amply  recompensed 
by  the  pleasures  which  attend  her." 

If  the  preceding  rule  should  not  be  completely  applicable 
to  every  case  which  ingenuity  may  state,  the  author  pre- 
sumes that  it  will  be  found  very  generally  useful. 

Though  we  have,  in  the  notes  under  the  thirteenth  rule  of 
the  Grammar,  explained  in  general  the  principles,  on  which 
the  time  of  a  verb  in  the  infinitive  mood  may  be  ascertained, 
and  its  form  determined;  yet  as  the  subject  is  curious  and 
important,  and  the  practice  of  good  writers  upon  it,  is  very 
discordant,  we  presume  it  will  not  be  unacceptable  to  the 
ymmg  student  of  grammar,  if  we  produce  a  few  additional 
observations  calculated  to  settle  his  judgment  on  this  con- 
tested point. 

The  following  rule,  founded  on  the  authorities  of  Harris, 
Lowth,  and  Campbell,  and  we  think  too,  on  the  authority  of 
common  sense,  appears  to  be  accurate,  as  wrell  as  simple  and 
intelligible.  "  When  the  action  or  event  signified  by  a  verb 
in  the  infinitive  mood,?  is  contemporary  or  future,  with  res- 


11  KEY. 

RULE    XIV. 
Grammar,  p.  184.     Exercises,  p.  75. 

Ksteeming  themselves  wise,  they  became  fools. 

Suspecting  not  only  you,  but  them  also,  I  was 
studious  to  avoid  all  intercourse. 

I  could  not  avoid  considering,  in  some  degree, 
them  as  enemies  to  me,  and  him  as  a  suspicious 
friend. 

From  having  exposed  himself  too  freely  in  dif- 
ferent climates,  he  entirely  lost  his  health. 

pect  to  the  verb  to  which  it  is  chiefly  related,  the  present  of 
the  infinitive  is  required  :  when  it  is  not  contemporary  nor 
future,  the  perfect  of  the  infinitive  is  necessary."  To  com- 
prehend and  apply  this  rule,  the  student  has  only  to  consid- 
er, whether  the  infinitive  verb  refers  to  a  time  antecedent, 
contemporary,  or  future,  with  regard  to  the  governing-  or  re- 
lated verb.  "When  tins  simple  point  is  ascertained,  there 
•will  be  no  doubt  in  his  mind,  respecting  the  form  which  the 
infinitive  verb  should  have.  Two  or  three  examples  may 
illustrate  these  positions.  If  I  wish  to  signify,  that  I  re- 
joiced at  a  particular  time,  in  recollecting  the  sight  of  a 
friend,  some  time  having  intervened  between  the  seeing  and 
the  rejoicing,  I  should  express  myself  thus  :  "  I  rejoiced  to 
have  seen  my  friend."  The  seeing,  in  this  case,  was  evi- 
dently antecedent  to  the  rejoicing  ;  and  therefore  the  verb 
which  expresses  the  former,  must  be  in  the  perfect  of  the  in- 
ifinitive.  The  same  meaning  may  be  expressed  in  a  differ- 
ent form  :  "  I  rejoiced  that  I  had  seen  my  friend  ;i?  or"  in 
having  seen  my  friend ;"  and  the  student  may,  at  any  time, 
try  the  propriety  of  a  doubtful  point  of  this  nature,  by  con- 
verting the  phrase  into  its  correspondent  forms  of  expression, 

If,  on  the  contrary,  I  wish  to  signify,  that  I  rejoiced  at 
the  sight  of  my  friend,  that  my  joy  ami  his  presence  were 
contemporary/  I  should  say, "  I  rejoiced  to  see  my  friend  :" 
or,  in  other  words,  "  I  rejoiced  in  seeing  my  friend."  The 
correctness  of  this  form  of  the  infinitive  may  also  be  tried, 
by  converting  the  phrase  into  its  correspondent  modes  of 
•expression. 

As  the  verbs  to  desire  and  to  ivish,  are  nearly  related,  the 
•young  student  may  naturally  suppose,  from  the  rule  at  page 
-381  of  the  Grammar,  that  the  latter  verb,  like  the  former, 
must  in  variably  be  followed  by  the  present  of  the  infinitive. 
liui  if  he  reflect,  that  the  aot  of  desiring  always  refers  to  the 


Rule  i^.J  SYNTAX*  45 

The  examples  which  follow.,  wre  suited  to  the  notes 

and  observations  under  RULE  xiv* 

Grammar,  p.  184.     Exercises,  p.  76. 

1»  By  observing  truth,  you  will  command  es- 
teem as  well  as  secure  peace. 

He  prepared  them  for  this  event,  by  sending  to 
them  proper  information* 

A  person  may  be  great  or  rich  by  chance  ;  but 
cannot  be  wise  or  good,  without  taking  pains  for  it. 

Nothing  could  have  made  her  so  unhappy,  as 
marrying  a  man  who  possessed  such  principles. 
Or — the  marrying  of  a  man,  &c» 

future;  and  that  the  act  of  wishing  refers  sometimes  to  the 
past,  as  well  as  sometimes  to  the  future ;  he  will  perceive 
that  the  following  modes  of  expression  are  strictly  justified  : 
"  I  wished  that  I  had  uuritten  sooner,5'  "  I  wished  to  have 
written  sooner;"  and  he  will  be  perfectly  satisfied  that  the 
following  phrases  must  be  improper  ;  "  I  desire  that  I  had 
written  sooner,"  "  I  desire  to  have  written  sooner.*' — See 
this  point  more  particularly  explained  in  the  author's  Gram- 
mar, p.  183  of  the  sixteenth  edition. 

Some  writers  on  grammar  contend,  that  the  sentence, 
*;  I  intend  to  have  written,"  is  correct  and  grammatical,  be- 
cause it  simply  denotes,  as  they  assert,  the  speaker's  in  ten* 
tion  to  be  hereafter  in  possession  of  the  finished  action  of 
writing.  But  to  this  reasoning  the  following  answers  'may 
be  given  :  that  the  phrase  "  to  have  written"  is  stated  In  Eng- 
lish grammars,  as  the  established  past  tense  of  the  infinitive 
mood  ;  tkat  it  is  as  i-ncontrovertibly  the  past  tense  of  the  in- 
finitive in  English,  as  scripsisse  is  the  past  tense  of  the  in- 
finitive, in  Latin  ;  that  no  writers  can  be  warranted  in  ta- 
king such  liberties  with  the  language,  as  to  contradict  its 
plainest  rules  for  the  sake  of  supporting  an  hypothesis  ;that 
these  writers  might,  on  their  own  principles  and  with  equal 
propriety,  contend,  that  the  phrase,  "I  intend  having  writ- 
ten," is  proper  and  grammatical ;  &  that  bv  admitting  such  vi- 
olations of  established  grammatical  distinctions,  confu-' 
sion  would  be  introduced,  the  language  would  be  disorgani- 
zed and  the  most  eccentric  systems  of  grammar  might  be  ad- 
vanced and  plausibly  supported. — In  short,  the  phrase, "  I 
intend  to  have  written,"  appears  to  involve  the  following 
absurdity  ; "  I  intend  to  produce  hereafter  an  action  or  event, 
which  has  been  already  completed,." 


46  k£Y.  (Rule  14. 

The  changing  of  times  and  seasons,  the  remov- 
ing and  setting  up  of  kings,  belong  to  Providence 
alone.  Or — changing  times  and  seasons,  remov- 
ing and  setting  up  kings,  &c. 

The  middle  station  of  life  seems  to  be  the  most 
advantageously  situated  for  the  gaining  of  wisdom. 
Poverty  turns  our  thoughts  too  much  upon  the  sup. 
plying  of  our  wants  ;  and  riches,  upon  enjoying 
our  superfluities.  Or—- -for gaining  wisdom — upon 
supplying  our  wants. 

Pliny,  speaking  of  Cato  the  Censor's  disapprov- 
ing of  the  Grecian  orators,  expressed  himself  thus. 

Propriety  of  pronunciation  is  the  giving  of  that 
sound  to  every  word,  which  the  most  polite  usage 
of  the  language  appropriates  to  it.  Or — is  giving 
to  every  word  that  sound,  &c.  Or — consists  in 
giving  to  every  word  that  sound,  &c. 

Not  attending  to  this  rule,  is  the  cause  of  a  very 
common  error.  Of—want  of  attention  to  this  rule,  &c. 

This  was  in  fact  a  converting  of  the  deposite  to 
his  own  use,  Qv-in  fact  converting  the  deposite,  &c. 

2t  There  will  be  no  danger  of  their  spoiling  of 
their  faces,  or  of  their  gaining  of  converts.  Or— 
iw  danger  of  spoiling  their  faces,  or  of  gaining 
converts.  Or — -no  danger  that  they  will  spoil 
their  faces  or  gain  converts* 

For  his  avoiding  of  that  precipice,  he  is  indebt- 
ed to  his  friend's,  care.  Or — For  avoiding  that 
precipice,  &c. 

It  was  from  our  misunderstanding  of  the  direc- 
tions, that  we  lost  our  way.  Or — From  misun- 
derstanding our  directions,  ice  lost  our  way. 

In  tracing  liis  history,  we  discover  little  that  is 
worthy  of  imitation. 

By  reading  books  written  by  the  best  authors, 
his  mind  became  highly  improved. 

3.  By  too  eager  pursuit,  he  ran  a  great  risk  of 
b.eing  disappointed, 


Rule  14.J  SYNTAX.  4& 

He  had  not  long  enjoyed  repose,  before  he  be- 
gan to  be  weary  of  having  nothing  tp  do. 

He  was  greatly  heated,  and  drank  with  avidity. 
Though  his  conduct  was,  in  some  respects,  ex- 
ceptionable, yet  he  durst  not  commit  so  great  an 
offence;  as  that  which  was  proposed  to  him. 

A  second  deluge  learning  thus  o'er-ran ; 
And  the  monks  finished  what  the  Goths  began. 

If  some  events  had  not/alien  out  very  unexpect- 
edly, I  should  have  been  present. 

He  would  bsiVQgone  with  us,  had  he  been  invited. 

He  returned  the  goods  which  he  had  stolen,)  and 
made  all  the  reparation  in  his  power. 

They  have  chosen  the  part  of  honour  and  virtue. 

His  vices  have  weakened  his  mind,  and  broken 
his  health. 

He  had  mistaken  his  true  interest,  and  found 
himself  forsaken  by  his  former  adherents. 

The  bread  that  has  been  eaten  is  soon  forgotten, 

No  contentions  have  arisen  amongst  them, 
since  their  reconciliation. 

The  cloth  had  no  seam,  but  was  woven  through- 
out. 

The  French  language  is  spoken  in  every  state 
in  Kurope. 

His  resolution  was  too  strong  tp  be  shaken  by 
slight  opposition. 

He  was  not  much  restrained  afterwards,  having 
taken  improper  liberties  at  first. 

He  has  not  yet  worn  off  the  rough  manners, 
which  he  brought  with  him. 

You  who  hay sforsqken  ypur  friends,  are  entit- 
led to  no  confidence. 

They  who  have  borne  a  part  in  the  labour,  shall 
share  the  rewards. 

When  the  rules  have  been  wontonly  broken^ 
there  can  be  no  plea  for  favour. 


48  KEY.  Rule  i5.J 

He  writes  as  the  best  authors  would  have  writ- 
ten had  they  written  on  the  same  subject. 

He  heaped  up  great  riches,  but  passed  his  time 
miserably. 

He  talked  and  stamped  with  such  vehemence, 
that  he  was  suspected  to  be  insane. 

RULE  xv. 
Grammar,  p.  186     Exercises,  p.  78. 

He  was  not  often  pleasing,  because  he  wras  vain, 

William  acted  nobly,  though  he  w7as  unsuccess- 
ful. 

We  may  live  happily,  though  our  possessions 
are  small. 

From  whence  we  may  likewise  date  the  period 
of  this  event. 

It  cannot  therefore  be  impertinent  or  ridiculous 
to  remonstrate. 

He  offered  an  apology,  which  not  being  admit- 
ted he  became  submissive. 

These  things  should  never  be  separated. 

Unless  he  have  more  government  of  himself,  he 
will  always  be  discontented. 

«7V*0  sovereign  was  ever  so  much  beloved  by  the 
people. 

He  \vas  determined  to  invite  the  king  back,  and 
to  call  his  friends  together. 

A  boy  so  well  educated  gives  great  hopes  to  his 
friends. 

He  found  her  not  only  employed,  but  also  pleas- 
ed and  tranquil. 

We  should  always  prefer  our  duty  lo  our  plea- 
sure. 

It  is  impossible  to  be  at  work  continually. 

The  heavenly  bodies  are  perpetually  in  motion. 

J\Tot  having  known,  or  not  having  considered, 
the  measures  proposed,  h$  failed  of  success. 


Rule  15. )    .  SYNTAX.  49 

My  opinion  was  given  on  a  rather  cursory  pe- 
rusal of  the  book. 

It  is  too  common  with  mankind,  to  be  totally  en- 
grossed, and  overcome,  by  present  events. 

When  the  Romans  were  pressed  with  a  foreign 
enemy,  the  women  voluntarily  contributed  all  their 
rings  and  jewels,  to  assist  the  government. 

The  following  sentences  exemplify  the  notes  an£ 
observations  under  RULE  xv. 

1.  They  could  not  persuade  him,  though  they 
were  ever  so  eloquent. 

If  some  persons'  opportunities  were  ever  so  fa- 
VQurable,  they  would  be  too  indolent  to  improve 
them. 

2.  He  drew  up  a  petition,  in  wliick  he  too  free- 
ly represented  his  own  merits. 

His  follies  had  reduced  him  to  a  situation  in 
which  he  had  much  to  fear,  and  nothing  to  hope. 

It  is  reported  that  the  prince  will  come  hither 
to-morrow. 

George  is  active  ;  he  walked  thither  in  less  thai} 
an  hour. 

Whither  are  you  all  going  in  such  haste  ? 

Where  have  they  been  since  they  left  the  city  ? 

3.  Charles  left  the  seminary  too  early,  and  from 
that  time   he  has  made  very  little   improvement. 
[)r — and  has  since  made,  &c. 

Nothing  is  better  worth  the  time  and  attention 
}f  young  persons,  than  the  acquisition  of  knowl- 
edge and  virtue, 

RULE  XVI, 

Grammar,  p.  189.      Exercises,  p.  80. 
Neither  riches  nor  honours,  nor  any  such  per- 
shing  goods,  can  satisfy  the  desires  of  an  immor^ 
;al  spirit. 

Be  honest,  and  take  no  shape  or  semblance  of 
lisguise.  F 


50  KEY.  (Rule  16,  17. 

We  need  not,  and  we  dp  not,  confine  his  ope- 
rations to  narrow  limits. 

I  am  resolved  not  to  comply  with  the  proposal, 
cither  at  present  or  at  any  other  time. 

There  cannot  be  any  thing  more  insignificant 
than  vanity. 

Nothing  ever  affected  her  so  much  as  this  mis- 
conduct of  her  child. 

Do  not  interrupt  me  yourselves,  nor  let  any  one 
disturb  my  retirement.  Or — neither  interrupt  me 
yourselves,  nor  let  any  one,  &c. 

These  people  do  not  judge  wisely,  nor  take 
proper  measures  to  effect  their  purpose. 

The  measure  is  so  exceptionable,  that  we  can- 
not by  any  means  permit  it. 

I  have  received  no  information  on  the  subject, 
either  ftom  him  or  from  his  friend. 

Neither  precept  nor  discipline  is  so  forcible  as 
example. 

Neither  the  king  nor  the  queen  was  at  all  de- 
ceived in  the  business. 

RULE    XVII. 

Grammar,  p.  190.     Exercises,  p.  81. 
We  are  all  accountable  creatures,  each  for  h  imself. 

They  willingly,  and  of  themselves,  endeavour- 
ed to  make  up  the  difference. 

He  laid  the  suspicion  upon  somebody,  I  know 
not  upon  whom,  in  the  company. 

I  hope  it  is  not  I  with  whom  he  is  displeased, 

To  poor  us  there  is  not  much  hope  remaining. 

Does  that  boy  know  to  whom  he  speaks  ?  To 
ichom  does  he  offer  such  language  ? 

It  wras  not  with  him  thjit  they  were  so  angry. 

What  concord  can  subsist  between  those  who 
commit  crimes,  and  those  who  abhor  them? 

The  person  with  whom  I  travelled,  has  sold  the 
horse  on  which  he  rode  during  our  journey. 


Rule.  17  J  SYNTAX.  51 


It  is  not  ifM  7mrc  lie  is  engaged. 

From  whom  did  he  receive  that  intelligence  ? 

The  following  examples  are  adapted  to  the  notes 

and  observations  under  RULE  xvn. 

Grammar  p.  190.    Exercises,  p.  81. 

1.  To  have  no  one  to  whom  we  heartily  wish 
well,  and  for  whom  we  are  warmly  concerned,  is 
a  deplorable  state. 

He  is  a  friend  to  whom  I  am  highly  indebted. 

2.  On  these  occasions,  the  pronoun  is  governed 
by  the  preceding  word,  and  consequently  agrees 
with  it. 

They  were  refused  entrance  into  the  house,  and 
forcibly  driven  from  it* 

3.  We  are  often  disappointed  in  things,  which, 
fore  possession,  promised  much  enjoyment. 

I  have  frequently  desired  their  company,  but  have 
always  hitherto  been  disappointed  of  that  pleasure, 
She  finds  a  difficulty  in  fixing  her  mind. 
(r  —  She  finds  it  difficult  to  JIM  her  mind. 

Her  sobriety  is  no  derogation  from  her  under- 

n  ding. 

There  was  no  water,  and  he  died  of  thirst. 

We  can  fully  confide  in  none  but  the  truly  good, 

I  have  no  occasion  for  his  services. 

Many  have  profited  by  good  advice. 

Many  ridiculous  practices  have  been  brought 
into  vogue. 

The  error  was  occasioned  by  compliance  with 
earnest  entreaty. 

This  is  a  principle  in  unison  with  our  nature. 

We  should  entertain  no  prejudices  against  sim- 
ple and  rustic  persons. 

They  are  at  present  resolved  on  doing  their 
duty.  Or  —  to  do  their  duty. 

That  boy  is  known  by  the  name  of  the  Idler. 


53  KEY.  (Rule  17. 

Though  conformable  to  custom,  it  is  not  war- 
rantable. 

This  remark  is  founded  on  truth. 

His  parents  think  of  him,  and  his  improvements, 
with  pleasure  and  hope. 

His  excuse  was  admitted  by  his  master. 

What  went  ye  out  to  see  ? 

There  appears  to  have  been  a  million  of  men 
brought  into  the  field. 

His  present  was  accepted  by  his  friends. 

More  than  a  thousand  men  were  destroyed. 

It  is  my  request,  that  he  will  be  particular,  in 
speaking  on  the  following  points. 

The  Saxons  reduced  the  greater  part  of  Britain 
under  their  power. 

He  lives  opposite  to  the  Royal  Exchange. 

Their  house  is  situated  on  the  north-east  side  of 
the  road. 

The  performance  was  approved  by  all  who  un- 
derstood it. 

He  was  accused  of  having  acted  unfairly. 

She  has  an  abhorrence  of  all  deceitful  conduct. 

They  were  at  some  distance  from  home,  when 
the  accident  happened. 

His  deportment  was  adapted  to  conciliate  regard. 

My  father  writes  to  me  very  frequently. 

Their  conduct  was  agreeable  to  their  profession. 

We  went  leisurely  up  stairs,  and  came  hastily 
down.  We  shall  write  above  stairs  this  forenoon, 
and  below  stairs  in  the  afternoon. 

The  politeness  of  the  world  has  the  same  resem- 
blance to  benevolence,  that  the  shadow  has  to  the 
substance. 

He  had  a  taste  for  such  studies,  and  pursued 
them  earnestly. 

When  we  have  had  a  true  taste  of  the  pleasures 
of  virtue,  we  can  have  no  relish  for  those  of  vice. 


Rule  18.  J  SYNTAX.  5S 

How  happy  is  it  to  know  how  to  live  at  times 
with  one's  self,  to  leave  one's  self  with  regret,  to 
find  one's  self  again  with  pleasure  !  The  world  is 
then  less  necessary  to  us. 

Civility  makes  its  way  with  every  kind  of  per- 
sons. Or — amongst  all  kind  of  persons. 

5.  I  went  to  London,  after  having  resided  a 
year  in  France  ;  and  I  now  live  at  Islington. 

They  have  just  landed  at  Hull,  and  are  going 
to  Liverpool.  They  intend  to  reside  some  time  m 
Ireland, 

PRULE    XVIII. 
Grammar,  p.  194.    Exercises,  p.  84. 
Professing  regard,  and  acting  differently,  dis- 
cover a  base  mind.     Or — To  profess  regard,  and 
to  act  differently,  &c. 

Did  he  not  tell  me  his  fault,  and  entreat  me  te 
forgive  him  ? 

My  brother  andfo  are  tolerable  grammarians. 

If  he  understands  the  subject,  and  attends  to  it 
industriously,  he  can  scarcely  fail  of  success. 

You  and  we  enjoy  many  privileges. 

If  a  man  have  a  hundred  sheep,  and  one  of  them 
should  go  astray,  will  he  not  leave  the  ninety  and 
nine,  and  go  into  the  mountains,  and  seek  that 
which  is  gone  astray? 

She  and  he  are  very  unhappily  connected. 

To  be  moderate  in  our  views,  and  to  proceed 
temperately  in  the  pursuit  of  them,  is  the  best  way 
to  insure  success. 

Between  him  and  me  there  is  some  disparity  of 
years  ;  but  none  between  him  and  her. 

By  forming  themselves  on  fantastic  models,  and 
vying  with  one  another  in  the  reigning  follies,  the 
young  begin  with  being  ridiculous;  and  end  with 
being  vicious  and  immoral. 

F   8 


.#*  KEY.  (Rule  19. 

The  following  sentences  exemplify  the  notes  and, 
observations  under  RULE  xvm. 
Grammar,  p.  1 95     Exercises,  p.  84. 

1.  We  have  met  with  many  disappointments  ; 
"and,  if  life  continue,  we  shall  probably  meet  with 
many  more. 

Hank  may  confer  influence,  but  it  will  not  ne- 
cessarily produce  virtue. 

He  does  not  want  courage,  but  he  is  defective 
in  sensibility. 

These  people  have  indeed  acquired  great  rich- 
es, but  they  do  not  command  esteem. 

Our  season  of  improvement  is  short ;  and,  whe- 
ther used  or  not,  it  will  soon  pass  away. 

He  might  have  been  happy,  and  he  is  now  fully 
convinced  of  it. 

Learning  strengthens  the  mind ;  and,  if  proper- 
ly applied,  it  will  improve  our  morals  too. 

RULE  XIX. 
Grammar,  p.  196.     Exercises,  p.  85. 

If  he  acquire  riches,  they  will  corrupt  his  mind 
and  be  useless  to  others. 

Though  he  urge  me  yet  more  earnestly,  I -shall 
not  comply,  unless  he  advance  more  forcible  rea- 
sons. 

I  shall  walk  in  the  fields  to-day,  unless  it  rain, 

As  the  governess  was  present,  the  children  be- 
liaved  properly. 

She  disapproved  the  measure,  because  it  was 
very  improper. 

Though  he  is  high,  he  hath  respect  to  the  lowly. 

Though  he  was  her  friend,  he  did  not  attempt 
to  justify  her  conduct. 

Whether  he  improves  or  not,  I  cannot  determine. 

Though  the  fact  is  extraordinary,   it  certainly 
happen. 

Remember  what  thou  ivast,  and  be  humble. 


Rule  19 .)  SYNTAX,  55 

O  !  that  his  heart  were  tender,  and  susceptible 
of  the  woes  of  others. 

Shall  then  this  verse  to  future  age  pretend, 
Thou  ivast  my  guide,  philosopher,  and  friend  ? 

The  examples  which  follow,  are  suited  to  the  notes 

and  observations  under  RULE  xix. 

Grammar,  p.  197.     Exercises,  p.  86* 

1.  Despise  not  any  condition,  lest  it  happen  to 
be  your  own* 

Let  him  that  is  sanguine,  take  heed  lest  he  mis- 
carry. 

Take  care  that  thou  "break  not  any  of  the  estab- 
lished rules. 

If  he  do  but  imitate  his  desire,  it  will  be  suffi- 
cient to  produce  obedience. 

At  the  time  of  his  return,  if  he  te  but  expert  in 
the  business,  he  will  find  employment. 

If  he  does  but  speak  to  display  his  abilities,  he  is 
unworthy  of  attention. 

If  he  is  but  in  health,  I  am  content. 

If  he  do  promise,  he  will  certainly  perform- 
Though  he  does  praise  her,  it  is  only  for  her 
"beauty. 

If  thou  do  not  forgive,  perhaps  thou  will  not  be 
forgiven. 

If  thou  dost  sincerely  believe  the  truths  of  re- 
ligion, act  accordingly. 

2.  His  confused  behaviour  made  it  reasonable 
to  suppose  that  he  was  guilty. 

He  is  so  conscious  of  deserving  the  rebuke,  that 
lie  dares  not  make  any  reply. 

His  apology  was  so  plausible,  that  many  be- 
friended him,  and  thought  he  was  innocent. 

3.  If  one  man  prefers  a  life  of  industry,  it  is 
because  he  has  an  idea  of  comfort  in  wealth  ;    if 
another  prefers  a  life  of  gaiety,  it  is  from  a  like 
idea  concerning  pleasure* 


KEY.  {Rule  19. 

one  engages  in  that  business,  unless  he  aims 
at  reputation,  or  hopes  for  some  singular  advantage. 

Though  the  design  is  laudable,  and  is  favoura- 
ble to  our  interest,  it  will  involve  much  anxiety 
fcncl  labour. 

4.  Unless  he  learn  faster,  he  will  be  no  scholar. 

Though  he/a  W,  he  shall  not  be  utterly  cast  down. 

On  condition  that  hec0mi,  I  will  consent  to  stay. 

However  that  affair  terminate,  my  conduct  will 
be  unimpeachable.  Or  —  may  terminate* 

If  virtue  reward  us  not  so  soon  as  we  desire,  the 
payment  will  be  made  with  iiiterest 

Till  repentance  compose  his  mind,  he  will  be  a 
stranger  to  peace. 

Whether  he  confess,  or  not,  the  truth  will  cer- 
tainly be  discovered. 

If  thou  censure  uncharitably,  tluou  wilt  be  entit- 
led to  no  favour. 

Though,  at  times,  the  ascent  to  the  temple  of 
virtue,  appear  steep  and  craggy,  be  not  discour- 
aged. Persevere  until  thou  gain  the  summit  : 
there,  all  is  order,  beauty,  and  pleasure. 

If  Charlotte  desires  to  gain  esteem  and  love,  she 
does  not  employ  the  proper  means. 

Unless  the  accountant  deceives  me,  my  estate  is 
considerably  improved. 

Though  self-government  produces  some  uneasi- 
ness, it  is  light,  when  compared  with  the  pain  of 
vicious  indulgence. 

Whether  he  thinks  as  he  speaks,  time  will  dis- 
cover. 

If  thou  censurest  uncharitably,  thou  deservest 
no  favour. 

Though  virtue  appears  severe,  she  is  truly  amia- 


Though  success  is  very  doubtful,  it  is  proper 
ihat  he  endeavour  to  succeed.  Or  —  he  should  en- 
deavour., &c* 


Rule  19  J  SYNTAX.  57 

5.  If  thou  #as£  promised,  be  faithful  to  thy  en- 
gagement. 

Though  he  has  proved  his  right  to  submission, 
he  is  is  too  generous  to  exact  it. 

Unless  he  has  improved,  he  is  unfit  for  the  office. 

6.  If   thou    hadst   succeeded,    perhaps   thou 
wouldst  not  be  the  happier  for  it. 

Unless  ihoushalt  see  the  propriety  of  the  mea- 
sure, we  shall  not  desire  thy  support. 

Though  thou  wilt  not  acknowledge,  thou  canst 
not  deny  the  fact. 

7-  If  thou  gavest  liberally,  thou  wilt  receive  a 
liberal  reward. 

Though  thou  didst  injure  him,  he  harbours  no 
resentment. 

It  would  be  well,  if  the  report  were  only  the 
misrepresentation  of  her  enemies. 

Were  he  ever  so  great  and  opulent,  this  conduct 
would  debase  him. 

Were  I  to  enumerate  all  her  virtues,  it  would 
look  like  flattery. 

Though  I  were  perfect,  yet  would  I  not  presume. 

8.  If  thou  mayest  share  in  his  labours,  be  thank- 
ful, and  do  it  cheerfully. 

Unless  thou  canst  fairly  support  the  cause,  give 
it  up  honourably. 

Though  thou  miglitst  have  foreseen  the  danger, 
thou  couldst  not  have  avoided  it. 

If  thou  coiddst  convince  him,  he  would  not  act 
accordingly. 

If  thou  ivouldst  improve  in  knowledge,  be  dili- 
gent. 

Unless  thou  shouldst  make  a  timely  retreat,  the 
danger  will  be  unavoidable. 

I  have  laboured  and  wearied  myself,  that  thou 
mayest  be  at  ease. 

He  enlarged  on  those  dangers,  that  thou  shouldst 
avoid  them, 


58  kEY,  (Rule  19. 

9.  Neither  the  cold  ncr  the  fevvid,  but  charact- 
ers uniformly  warm,  are  formed  for  friendship. 

They  are  both  praise-worthy,  and  one  is  as  de- 
serving as  the  other.  Or — -and  equally  deserving. 

He  is  not  so  diligent  and  learned  as  his  brother. 

I  will  either  present  it  to  him  myself,  or  direct 
it  to  be  given  to  him. 

Neither  despise  nor  oppose  what  tliou  dost  not 
Understand. 

The  house  is  not  so  commodious  as  we  expect- 
ed it  would  be, 

I  must,  however,  be  so  candid  as  to  own  that  I 
have  been  mistaken. 

There  was  something  so  amiable,  and  yet  so 
piercing  in  his  look,  that  it  affected  me  at  once  with 
lore  and  terror. 


-"  1  gain'd  a  son 


And  such  a  son,  that  all  men  hail'd  me  happy. 

The  dog  in  the  manger  would  neither  eat  the 
hay  himself,  nor  suffer  the  ox  to  eat  it* 

So  far  as  I  am  able  to  judge,  the  book  is  well 
Written. 

We  should  either  faithfully  perform  the  trust 
committed  to  us,  or  ingenuously  relinquish  the 
charge, 

He  is  not  so  eminent,  and  so  much  esteemed,  as 
he  thinks  himself  to  be, 

The  work  is  a  dull  performance  ;  and  is  capable 
of  pleasing  neither  the  understanding,  nor  the  im- 
agination. 

There  is  no  condition  so  secure,  as  not  to  ad- 
mit  of  change. 

This  is  an  event,  which  nobody  presumes  up- 
on, or  is  so  sanguine  as  to  hope  for. 

We  are  generally  pleased  with  any  little  ac- 
complishment either  of  body  or  of  mind. 

10.  Be  ready  to  succour  such  persons  as  need 
Ihy  assistance.  Or — those  persons  wlijoneed,  &c< 


Rule  19.J  SYNTAX.  59 

The  matter  was  ne  sooner  proposed,  than  lie 
privately  withdrew  to  consider  it. 

He  has  too  much  sense  and  prudence  to  be- 
come  a  dupe  to  such  artifices. 

It  is  not  sufficient  that  our  conduct^  so  far  as  it 
respects  others,  appears  to  be  unexceptionable. 

The  resolution  was  riot  the  less  fixed,  though  the 
secret  was  as  yet  communicated  to  very  few. 

He  opposed  the  most  remarkable  corruptions  of 
the  church  of  Rome ;  and,  on  this  account,  his 
doctrines  were  embraced  by  great  numbers. 

He  gained  nothing  further  by  his  speech,  than 
to  be  commended  for  his  eloquence.  Or— nothing 
Inj  his  speech  but  commendation  for  his  eloquence. 

He  has  little  more  of  the  scholar  than  the  name. 

He  has  little  of  the  scholar  but  the  name.  Or — - 
besides  the  name. 

They  had  no  sooner  risen,  than  they  applied 
themselves  to  their  studies. 

From  no  other  institution,  than  the  admirable 
one  of  juries,  could  so  great  abenefitbe  expected. 

Those  savage  people  seemed  to  have  no  other 
element  than  war.  Or— no  element  but  that  of  war. 

Such  men  as  act  treacherously  ought  to  be  avoid- 
ed. Or — -The  men  who  act  treacherously,  &c. 

Germany  ran  the  same  risk  that  Italy  had  done. 

No  errors  are  so  trivial,  that  they  do  not  deserve  to 

be  mended.     Or— -as  not  to  deserve  amendment.^ 

*  Some  respectable  grammarians  suppose,  that  the  word  as 
is  always  a  pronoun ;  and  that,  in  every  situation,  it  has  the 
meaning  of  it,  that  or  which.  They  would,  however,  find  it 
difficult  to  prove,  that,  in  the  following  sentences,  this  word 
has  the  meaning  of  any  one  of  those  pronouns.  "  Jls  to 
those  persons,  I  must  say,  as  it  is  due  to  them,  that  they 
Mere  as  disinterested  as  their  opponents."  "  Love  thy  neigh- 
bour as  thyself."  "  Forgive  us  our  debts  as  we  forgive  our 
debtors."  «  And  as  Paul  was  long  preaching,  Eutychus  sunk 
dcwa."  See  the  Grammar,  Stereotype  edition, pages  142, 143, 


KEY. 


RULE   XX. 
Grammar,  pc  2C6.     Exercises,  p.  90. 

In  some  respects,  we  have  had  as  many  advan- 
tages as  they  ;  but  in  the  article  of  a  good  library, 
they  have  had  a  greater  privilege  than  we  have  had. 

The  undertaking  was  much  better  executed  by 
his  brother  than  by  him. 

They  are  much  greater  gainers  than  I  am  by 
this  unexpected  event. 

They  know  how  to  write  as  well  as  he  does  ; 
but  he  is  a  much  better  grammarian  than  t  hey  are. 

Though  she  is  not  so  learned  as  he  is,  she  is  as 
much  beloved  and  respected, 

These  people,  though  they  possess  more  shining 
qualities,  are  not  so  proud  as  he  is,  nor  so  vain  as  she. 

The  following  examples  are  adapted  to  the  notes 

and  observations  under  RULE  xx, 

Grammar,  p.  206.     Exercises,  p.  91. 

1.  Who  betrayed  her  companion  ?  Not  J. 

Who  revealed  the  secrets  he  ought  to  have  con- 
cealed ?  Not  he. 

Who  related  falsehoods  to  screen  herself,  and 
to  bring  an  odium  upon  others  ?  Not  I  ;  it  was  she,, 

There  is  but  one  in  fault,  and  that  is  /.  Or-^ 
myself. 

Whether  he  will  be  learned  or  not,  must  de- 
pend on  his  application. 

Charles  XII.  of  Sweden,  than  whom  a  more 
courageous  person  never  Jived,  appears  to  have 
been  destitute  of  the  tender  sensibilities  of  nature. 

Salmasius  (and  a  more  learned  man  than  he  has 
seldom  appeared)  was  ijot  happy  at  the  close  of 
life.* 

*  Some  grammarians  suppose  that  the  words  than  and  but 
are  sometimes  used  as  prepositions,  and  govern  the  objec- 
tive case.  They  adopt  this  idea,  from  the  difficulty,  if  not 


Rule  %i*J  SYNTAX,  61 

RULE  XXI, 
Grammar,  p.  207.     Exercises,  p.  92. 

I  gladly  shunned  Mm  who  gladly  fled  from  me. 

And  this  is  that  which  men  mean  by  distribu- 
tive justice,  and  which  is  properly  termed  equity, 

His  honour,  his  interest,  his  religion,  were  all 
embarked  in  this  undertaking. 

When  so  good  a  man  as  Socrates  fell  a  victim 
to  the  madness  of  the  people,  truth,  and  virtue^ 
find  religion,  fell  with  him. 

impossibility,  as  they  conceive,  of  explaining  many  phrases, 
on  any  other  principle.     This  plea  of  necessity  appears,  how- 
ever, to  be  groundless.    The  principle  of  supplying  the  Ellip- 
sis is,  we  think,  sufficient  to  resolve  every  case,  in  which  than 
or  ftwiocpurs,  without  wresting  these  words  from  their  true 
nature,  and  giving  them  the  character  of  prepositions.     In 
the  Grammar,  under  Rule  20th,  page  206,  we  have  exhibited 
number  of  examples,  showing  that  the  supply  of  the  ellipsis 
sufficiently  explains  their  construction.     But  as  these  may 
be  deemed  obvious  cases,  we  shall   select  some,  which  ap- 
pear to  b0?more  difficult  in  their  developemerit.  The  follow? 
ing  are  of  this  nature.  "  I  saw  nobody,  but  him  ;*?  "  No  per- 
son but  he  was  present  ;?>  "  More  persons  than  they,  saw  the 
action ;"  "  The  secret  was  communicated  to  more  men,  than, 
him  ;"  "  This  trade  enriched  some  people  more  than  them.53 
All  these  sentences  may  be   explained,  on  the  principle  of 
supplying  the  ellipsis,  in  the  following  manner.    In  the  first? 
we  might  say  "  I  sa,w  nobody,  but  I  saw  him  ;??    or,  "  I  saw 
nobody  but  him,  I  sa<iv  ;n  in  the  second,  "  None  was  present^ 
but  he  was  present ;"  in  the  third,  "  More  persons  than  they 
were,  saw  the  action."   or,  "  More  than  these  persons  ivere^ 
saw  the  action;*'  in  the  fourth,  ^  The  secret  was  communi- 
cated to  more  persons  than  to  him  ;"  in  the  fifth,  "  This  trado 
enriched  some  people  more  than  it  enriched  them." — The 
supply  of  the  ellipsis  certamly  gives  an  uncouth  appearance 
to  these  sentences  :  but  this  circumstance  forms  no  solid  ob- 
jection to  the  truth  of  the  principle  for  which  we  contend.. 
Most  of  the  idiom*  in  a  language  could  not  be  literally  ac- 
counted for,  but  by  very  awkward  modes  of  expression. 

If  the  rule  which  has  been  recommended,  effectually  an~ 
swers  the  purpose  of  ascertaining  the  cases  of  nouns  and  pro  > 
nouns,  in  connexion  with  the  words  than  &  but,  why  should 
we  have  recourse  to  the  useless  expedient  of  changing  thes.> 

Gt 


KEY, 

Neither  the  fear  of  death,,  nor  the  hope  of  life, 
£ould  make  him  submit  to  a  dishonest  action. 

An  elegant  house  and  much  costly   furniture 

were,  by  this  event,  irrecoverably  lost  to  the  owner. 

The  examples  which  folio  w,  are  suited  to  the  notes 

and  observations  under  RULE  xxi. 

Grammar,  p»  207.     Exercises,  p.  92. 

1,  These  rules  are  addressed  to  none  but  the 
intelligent  and  attentive. 

The  gay  and  pleasing  are,,  sometimes,  the  most 
insidious  and  dangerous  companions. 

words  into  other  parts  of  speech  5  especially  when  this  ex- 
pedient would  often  produce  ambiguity,  and  lead  into  error? 
That  it  would  have  this  effect,  might  be  shown  in  numerous 
instances.  One,  however,  will  be  sufficient.  "  If  we  use 
the  word  than,  as  a  preposition,  we  should  say,  "  I  love  her 
better  than  him,'2  whether  it  be'meaiit,  '  I  love  her  better 
than  I  love  him/  or,  '  I  love  her  better  than  he  does.'  By 
sisingthe  word  as  a  conjunction-,  the  ambiguity  is  prevented. 
For,  if  the  former  sentiment  is  implied,  we  say,  ;  I  love  her 
better  than  him  ;'  that  is,  <  than  I  love  him  ;3  if  the  latter,  we 
say.  *  I  love  her  better  than  he,9  that  is,  <  than  he  loves  her.'  " 

If  it  should  be  said,  that  but  and  than  may  be  properly  sup- 
plied by  the  prepositions  except  and  besides,  and  that  there- 
lore  the  substitution  of  the  latter  for  the  former  must  be  al- 
lowable; we  reply,  that  in  numerous  instances,  these  words 
cannot  be  properly  substituted  for  each  other.  But  if  this 
could  be  universally  done,  it  might  still  be  said,  that  equiva- 
lence of  meaning,  by  no  means  implies  id  entity  of  grammati- 
cal construction.  This,  we  think,  has  been  fully  proved  at 
page  72,  of  the  Grammar;  the  twelfth,  or  any  subsequent 
edition. 

From  what  has  been  advanced  on  this  subject,  the  follow- 
ing rule  maybe  laid  down.  "  When  the  pronoun  following 
but  or  than,  has  exactly  the  same  bearing  and  relation  as  the 
preceding  noun  or  pronoun  has,  with  regard  to  the  other 
parts  of  the  sentence,  it  must  have  the  same  grammatical 
construction."  By  applying  this  rule  to  the  various  exam- 
ples already  exhibited,  the  reader  will,  we  doubt  not,  per- 
ceive its  propriety  and  use. 

That  the  student  may  be  still  further  assisted,  in  his  en- 
deavours to  discover  the  true  grammatical  construction  of  a 
r  pronoun  following  but  or  than,  it  may  not  be  improper 


£tule.  %i.J  SYNTAX-.  63 

Old  age  will  prove  a  joyless  and  dreary  season, 
if  we  arrive  at  it  with  an  unimproved,  or  a  cor- 
rupted mind. 

The  more  I  see  of  his  conduct,  the  better  I  like  him. 

It  is  not  only  the  duty,  but  the  interest  of  young 
persons,  to  be  studious  and  diligent. 

2.  These  counsels  were  the  dictates  of  virtue^ 
and  of  true  honour. 

Avarice  and  cunning  may  acquire  an  estate ;  but 
they  cannot  gain  friends. 

A  taste  for  useful  knowledge,  will  provide  for 
us  a  great  and  noble  entertainment,  when  other 
entertainments  leave  us-. 

to  observe,  that  the  18th  Rule  of  Syntax  may  be  consider- 
ed as  subsidiary  to  the  preceding  rule,  and  to  the  principle 
of  supplying  the  ellipsis.  Thus,  in  the  expression,  *•  I  saw 
nobody  out  him,"  nobody  is  in  the  objective  case,  governed 
by  the  verb  Saw  ;  arid  Mm  is  in  the  same  case,  because  CGI. 
junctions,  according  to  Rule  the  18th,  connect  the  same  cases 
of  nouns  and  pronouns.  In  the  phrase, "  Nobody  but  he  was 
present,"  he  is  in  the  nominative  case,  because  it  is  connect- 
ed by  the  conjunction  but,  with  the  -noun  nobody^  which  is 
in  the  nominative.  The  other  sentences,  in  which  the  con- 
junction than  is  used,  may  be  'construed  in  the  same  manner, 

If  the  18th  Rule  of  Syntax  should  not  appear  to  apply  to 
'every  example  which  has  been  produced  in  this  discussion, 
nor  to  others  which  might  be  adduced  ;  it  will  be  found,  on 
strict  examination,  that  the  supposed  exceptions  are,  in  fact, 
sentences  which  do  not  come  within  -tire  reason  and  limita- 
tion of  the  rule.  Thus,  in  the  sentence,  "  I  have  a  greater 
respect  for  them  than  he,"  the  pronoun  heis  connected  by 
the  conjunction  than  with  the  pronoun  them;  and  yet  they 
are  not  put  in  the  same  case  ;  because  they  have  not  the  same 
bearing  and  relation,  with  -regard  to  the  rest  of  the  sentence  5 
which  is  requisite  according  to  Rule  18th  and  its  explanatory 
note.  See  the  Grammar,  page  194  of  the  Stereotype  edition. 

The  two  latter  rules  are  founded  on  the  principle  of  sup- 
plying the  ellipsis, -and  are  intimately  connected  with  it :: 
they  in  fact  derive  all  their  authority  from  that  principle, 
They  may,  however,  be  of  use  to  the  student, .by  presenting 
tliCi  subject  in  different  points  of  view:  some  of  them  may 
strike  his  attention,  more  than  others,  and  lead  him  to  a  fuU 
deyelopement  of  the  subject. 


64  KEY.  faute  21 

Without  firmness,  nothing  that  is  great  can  be 
undertaken  ;  nothing  that  is  difficult  or  hazard- 
ous^ can  be  accomplished. 

The  auxious  man  is  the  votary  of  riches  ;  the 
negligent  man,  that  of  pleasure. 

3.  His  crimes  had  brought  him  into  extreme 
distress,  and  perplexity. 

He  has  an  affectionate  brother  and  sister ;  and 
they  live  in  great  harmony. 

We  must  guard  against  too  great  severity,  and 
too  great  facility  of  manners. 

We  should  often  recollect  what  the  wisest  men 
have  said  and  written,  concerning  human  happi- 
ness, and  human  vanity. 

That  species  of  commerce  will  produce  great 
gain,  OT  great  loss* 

Many  days  and  even  many  weeks  pass  away  un- 
improved. 

This  wonderful  action  struck  the  beholders 
with  exceedingly  great  astonishment.  Or— with 
very  great,  &c. 

The  people  of  this  country  possess  a  healthful 
climate,  and  a  fruitful  soil. 

They  enjoy  also  a  free  constitution,  and  excel- 
lent laws. 

4.  His  reputation  and  estate  were  both  lost  by 
gaming. 

This  intelligence  excited  not  only  our  hopes, 
but  our  fears  too, 

His  conduct  is  not  scandalous  ;  and  this  is  the 
lest  that  can  be  said  of  it. 

This  was  the  person  whom  calumny  had  great- 
ly abused,  and  who  sustained  the  injustice  with 
singular  patience. 

He  discovered  some  qualities  in  the  youth,  of  a 
disagreeable  nature,  and  which  to  him  were  whol- 
ly unaccountable. 


Ride  %LJ  SYNTAX.  65 

The  captain  had  several  men  who  died  in  his 
ship,  of  the  scurvy. 

He  is  not  only  sensible  and  learned,  but  he  is 
religious  too. 

The  Chinese  language  contains  an  immense 
number  of  words  ;  and  he  who  would  learn  them, 
must  possess  a  great  memory. 

By  presumption  a,nd  v^nity^  we  provoke  enmity^ 
mid  incur  contempt. 

In  the  circumstances  in  which  I  was  at  that  time, 
my  troubles  pressed  heavily  upon  me. 

He  has  destroyed  his  constitution,  by  the  very 
same  errors  by  which  so  many  have  been  destroy- 
ed. Or— same  errors  that  have  destroyed  so  many. 

5.  He  is  temperate,  disinterested,  and  benevo- 
lent; an  ornament  to  his  family,  and  a  credit  to 
Ms  profession. 

Genuine  virtue  supposes  our  benevolence  to  be 
strengthened,  and  confirmed  by  principle. 

Perseverance  in  laudable  pursuits,  will  reward 
all  our  toils,  and  produce  effects  beyond  our  cal- 
culation. 

It  is  happy  for  us,  \vhen  we  can  calmly  and  de- 
liberately look  back  on  the  past,  and  anticipate  the 
future. 

The  sacrifices  of  virtue  will  not  only  be  rewar- 
ded hereafter,  but  they  willte  recompensed  eveii 
in  this  life. 

All  those  who  were  possessed  $f  any  office,  re- 
signed their  former  commission.  Or — Ml  who 
were  possessed,  &c. 

If  young  persons  were  determined  to  conduct 
Ihemselves  by  the  rules  of  virtue,  not  only  would 
they  escape  innumerable  dangers,  but  they  would 
/command  respect  from  the  licentious  themselves. 

Erles  was  a  man  of  learning,  knowledge,  and 
e, 


66 


KEY.  (Rule 


benevolence  ;  and,  M  hat  is  still  more,  he  was  a  true 
Christian.  * 

6.  The  temper  of  him  who  is  always  in  the  bustle 
i)f  the  world,  will  often  be  ruffled  and  disturbed, 

We  often  commend,  as  well  as  censure  impru- 
dently. 

How  a  seed  grows  up  into  a  tree,  and  how  the 
mind  acts  upon  the  body,  are  mysteries  which  we 
cannot  explain. 

Verily,  there  is  a  reward  for  the  righteous  ! 
Verily  there  is  a  God  that  judgeth  in  the  earth  ! 

7.  Changes  are  almost  continually  taking  place, 
In  men  and  manners,,  in  opinions  and  customs,  in 
private  fortunes  and  in  public  conduct. 

Averse  either  to  contradict  or  to  blame,  the  too 
complaisant  man  goes  along  with  the  manners  that 
prevail. 

By  this  habitual  indelicacy,  the  virgins  smiled 
at  what  they  blushed  at  before. 

They  ate  now  reconciled  to  what  they  could  not 
formerly  be  promted  to,  by  any  considerations. 

Censure  is  the  tax  which  a  man  pays  to  the  pub- 
lic for  being  eminent. 

Reflect  on  the  state  of  human  life,  and  on  the 
society  of  men,  as  mixed  with  good  and  evil. 

8.  In  all  stations  and  conditions,  the  important 
relations  take  place,  of  masters  and  servants,  hus- 
bands and  wives,  parents  and  children,  brothers 
and  friends,  citizens  and  subjects. 

Destitute  of  principle^  he  regarded  neither  his 
family,  his  friends,  nor  his  reputation, 

*  The  auxiliary  verbs  are  often  very  properly  omi  ted  be- 
fore the  principal  verb  :  as  "  I  have  seen  and  heard  him  fre- 
quently ;"  not  "  have  heard  :"  He  will  lose  his"  estate  and 
incur,  reproach  ;"  not  "  iviil  incur.'3  But  when  anything 
is  emphatically  expressed,  or  when  opposition  is  denoted, 
this  ellipsis  should  be  avoided  :  "  I  have  seen,  and  I  have 
lieard  him  too  ;'?  «  He  was  .admired,  but  he  was  not  beloved/' 


, 


Rule  S2J  SYNTAX.  S7 

Religious  persons  are  often  unjustly  represent- 
ed as  persons  of  romantic  character,  and  of  vision- 
ary notions ;  unacquainted  with  the  world,  and 
unfit  to  live  in  it. 

No  rank,  nor  station,  no  dignity  of  birth,  nor 
any  possessions,  exempt  men  from  contributing 
their  share  to  public  utility. 

9.  Oh,  my  father!  my  friend!  how  great  has 
been  my  ingratitude  ! 

Oh,  Piety  !  Oh  Virtue !  how  insensible  have  I 
been  to  your  charms  ! 

10.  That  is  a  property  which  most  men  have, 
er  which  at  least  they  may  attain. 

Why  do  ye  that,  which  it  is  riot  lawful  to  do 
on  the  sabbath  days  ?  Or — to  do  ivhich  is  not  law- 
ful, &c. 

The  showbread,  which  it  is  not  lawful  to  eat, 
but  for  the  priests  alone.  Or — to  eat  which  is  not 
laicful,  but,  &c* 

Most,  if  not  all,  of  the  royal  family,  had  quitted 
the  place. 

By  these  happy  labours,  they  who  SOWT,  and 
they  who  reap,  will  rejoice  together. 

RULE    XXII. 
Grammar,  p.  212.     Exercises,  p.  96. 

The  ivork  has  received  several  alterations  and 
additions. 

The  first  proposal  was  inferior  to  the  second, 
and  essentially  different  from  it. 

He  is  more  bold  and  active  than  his  companion, 
but  not  so  wise  and  studious^ 

Thou  hearest  the  sound  of  the  wind,  but  thou 
canst  not  tell  whence  it  cometh,  nor  whither  it  goeth. 

Neither  has  he,  nor  have  any  other  persons,  sus- 
pected so  much  dissimulation. 

The  court  of  France,  or  that  of  England,  was 
to  have  Ibeeu  the  umpire. 


68  KEY.  fRule  22. 

In  the  reign  of  Henry  II.  all  foreign  commodi- 
ties were  plentiful  in  England.  Or— In  the  reign, 
&c.  there  was  plenty  of,  &c. 

There  is  no  talent  more  useful  towards  success 
in  business,  or  which  puts  men  more  out  of  the 
reach  of  accidents,  than  that  quality  generally  pos- 
sessed by  persons  of  cool  temper,  and  which  is,  in 
common  language,  called  discretion.  Or — no  tal- 
ent so  useful,  &c.  or  wliich  puts  men  so  mudi  out 
ft/the  reach,  &c.  as  that  quality,  &c. 

The  first  project  was  to  shorten  discourse,  by 
reducing  polysyllables  to  words  of  one  syllable. 

I  shall  do  all  I  can,  to  persuade  others  to  take 
the  same  measures  foi*  their  cure,  which  I  have 
taken. 

The  greatest  masters  of  critical  learning  differ 
among  themselves.    Or — do  not  always  harmonize* 
Micaiah  said,  « If  thou  return  in  peace,  then 
;ihe  Lord  hath  not  spoken  by  me." 

I  do  not  suppose,  that  we  Britons  want  genius, 
more  than  our  neighbors. 

The  deaf  man,  whose  ears  wrere  opened,  and 
whose  tongue  was  loosed,  doubtless  glorified  the 
;great  Physician. 

Groves,  fields,  and  meadows,  are,  at  any  season 
of  the  year,  pleasant  to  look  upon ;  but  never  so 
much  so  as  in  the  opening  of  the  spring.  Or — but 
never  so  agreeable  as  in  the  opening  of  the  spring. 
The  multitude  rebuked  them,  that  they  should 
hold  their  peace.  Or — that  they  might  be  silent. 

The  intentions  of  some  of  these  philosophers, 
nay,  of  many,  might  have  been,  and  probably  were 
good. 

The  wonderful  civilities  which  have  passed  be- 
tween the  nation  of  authors,  and  that  of  readers, 
.are  an  unanswerable  argument,  of  a  very  refined 
age. 


Promiscuous.}  SYNTAX.  69 

It  was  an  unsuccessful  undertaking ;  the  failure 
of  which,  is,  however,  no  objection  at  all  to  an  en- 
terprise so  well  concerted. 

The  reward  is  his  due,  and  it  has  already  been, 
or  it  will  hereafter  be,  given  to  him.  Or — already 
been  given  to  him,  or  it  will  be  hereafter  bestowed* 

By  intercourse  with  wise  and  experienced  per- 
sons, who  know  the  world,  we  may  improve  a 
private  and  retired  education,  and  rub  off  its  rust, 

Sincerity  is  as  valuable  as  knowledge,  and  even 
more  valuable. 

No  person  was  ever  so  perplexed  as  he  has  been 
to-day,  or  sustained  such  mortifications. 

The  Romans  gave,  not  only  the  freedom  of  the 
city,  but  capacity  for  employments,  to  the  inhabi* 
tants  0/several  towns  in  Gaul,  Spain,  and  Germany* 

Such  writers  have  no  standard  on  which  to  form 
themselves,  except  what  chances  to  be  fashionable 
and  popular.  Or— have  no  other  standard,  &c* 
than  that  which  chances,  &c. 

Whatever  we  do  secretly,  shall  be  displayed  in 
the  clearest  light. 

To  the  happiness  of  possessing  a  person  of  so 
uncommon  merit,  Boethius  soon  joined  the  satis- 
faction of  obtained  the  highest  honour  his  country 
could  bestow.  Or— -joined  that  of  obtaining,  &c0 


CHAP.  IL 

Containing  corrections  of   the    false   SYNTAX, 
promiscuously  disposed. 
See  Exercises,  p.  98. 
SECTION  1. 

THOUGH  great  have  been  his  disobedience  and 
folly,  yet  if  he  sincerely  acknowledge  his  miscon- 
duct, lie  will  be  forgiven. 


yo  KEY.  {Promiscuous. 

On  these  causes  depends  all  the  happiness  or 
inisery,  which  exists  among  men. 

The  property  of  James,  I  mean  his  books  and 
furniture,  was  wholly  destroyed. 

This  prodigy  of  learning,  this  scholar,  critic, 
mid  antiquarian,  was  entirely  destitute  of  breeding 
and  civility. 

That  writer  has  given  an  account  of  the  manned 
in  which  Christianity  was  formerly  propagated 
among  the  heathens. 

We  adore  the  Divine  Being,  him  who  is  from 
eternity  to  eternity. 

Thou,  Lord,  who  hast  permited  affliction  to 
come  upon  us,  wilt  deliver  us  from  it,  in  due  time, 

In  this  place,  there  was  not  only  security,  but 
an  abundance  of  prorisions. 

By  these  attainnienfcs,  the  master  is  honoured; 
&nd  the  scholars  are  encouraged. 

The  sea  appeared  to  be  agitated  more  than 
usual.  Or — 'Unusually  agitated. 

Not  one  in  fifty,  of  those  who  fcall  themselves 
deists,  understands  the  nature  of  the  religion 
which  he  rejects. 

Virtue  and  mutual  confidence  are  the  soul  of 
friendship.  Where  these  are  wanting,  disgust  or 
hatred  often  follows  little  differences. 

Time  and  chance  happen  to  all  men  ;  but  every 
person  does  not  consider  who  governs  those  power- 
ful causes. 

The  active  mind  of  mail  seldom  or  never  rests 
satisfied  with  its  present  condition,  \LQVJ  prosper- 
ous soever  it  may  be. 

Habits  must  be  acquired  of  temperance  and  self- 
denial,  that  we  may  be  able  to  resist  pleasure,  and 
to  endure  pain,  when  either  of  them  interferes 
with  our  duty. 

The  error  of  resting  wholly  on  faith,  or  wholly 
on  works,  is  one  of  those  seductions  which  mosj; 


]j*romtscuoiis.j  SYNTAX. 

easily  mislead  men  ;  under  the  semblance  of 
on  the  one  hand,  and  of  virtue  on  the  other. 

It  was  no  exaggerated  tale  ;  for  she  was  really 
in  that  sad  condition  in  which  her  friend  had  rep- 
resented her. 

An  army  presents  a  painful  sight  to  a  feeling 
mind. 

The  enemies  ivham  we  have  most  to  fear,  are 
those  of  our  own  hearts. 

Thou  art  the  Messiah,,  the  Son  of  God;  who  was 
to  come  into  the  world,  and  who  has  been  so  long 
promised  and  desired. 

Thomas's  disposition  is  better  than  his  brother's  ;. 
(or  than  that  of  his  brother  ;J  and  he  appears  ta 
|>e  the  happier  man  ;  but  some  degree  of  trouble  is 
all  men's  portion. 

Though  remorse  sometimes  sleeps  daring  pros- 
perity, it  will  surely  awake  in  adversity. 

It  is  an  invariable  law  of  our  present  condition^ 
that  every  pleasure  which  is  pursued  to  excess,, 
converts  itself  into  poison. 

If  a  man  bring,  into  the  solitary  retreat  of  age, 
a  vacant,  an  unimproved  mind,  in  wrhich  no  knowl- 
edge dawns,  no  ideas  rise,  and  which  supplies  him 
with  nothing  to  feed  upon  within  himself,  many  a 
heavy  and  comfortless  day  he  must  necessarily  pass. 

I  cannot  yield  to  so  dishonourable  conduct, 
either  at  the  present  moment  of  difficulty,  or  un- 
der any  circumstance  whatever. 

Themistocles  concealed  the  enterprises  of  Pau- 
sanias,  either  because  he  thought  it  base  to  betray 
the  secrets  trusted  to  his  confidence,  or  because  he 
imagined  it  impossible  for  schemes  so  dangerous 
and  ill  concerted,  to  take  effect. 

Pericles  gained  such  an  ascendant  over  the 
minds  of  the  Athenians,  that  it  may  be  said,  he 
attained  monarchial  power  in  Athens. 

Christ  applauded  the  liberality  of  the  poor  wido  w; 


(Promiscuous 

whom  he  saiv  casting  her  two  mites  into  the  treasury. 

A  multiplicity  of  little  kind  offices,  in  persons 
frequently  conversant  with  each  other,  are  the 
bands  of  society  and  friendship. 

To  do  good  to  them  that  hate  us,  and,  on  no  oc- 
casion, to  seek  revenge,  arethe  duties  of  a  Christian. 

If  a  man  professes  a  regard  for  the  duties  of 
religion,  and  neglects  those  of  morality,  that  man's 
religion  is  vain. 

Affluence  may ^give  us  respect,  in  the  eyes  of  the 
yulgar,  but  it  will  not  recommend  us  to  the  wise 
and  good. 

The  polite,  accomplished  libertine,  is  miserable 
amidst  all  his  pleasures  :  the  rude  inhabitant  of 
Lapland  is  happier  than  he  is. 

The  cheerful  and  gay,  when  warmed  by  plea- 
sure and  mirth,  lose  that  sobriety  and  self-denial, 
which  are  essential  to  the  support  of  virtue. 

SECTION  3. 

Exercises,  p.  100. 

THERE  was,  in  the  metropolis,  much  to  amuse 
them,  as  well  as  many  things  to  excite  disgust. 

How  much  are  real  virtue  and  merit  exposed  to 
suffer  the  hardships  of  a  stormy  life  ! 

This  is  one  of  the  duties  which  require  peculiar, 
circumspection. 

JL  higher  degree  of  happiness  than  that  which  I 
have  described,  seldom  falls  to  the  lot  of  mortals. 

There  are  principles  in  man,  which  ever  have 
inclined,  and  which  ever  will  incline,  him  to  offend. 

Whence  has  arisen  so  great  a  variety  of  opin- 
ions and  tenets  in  religion  ? 

Its  stature  is  less  than  that  of  a  man ;  but  its 
strength  and  agility  are  much  greater. 

Them  that  honour  me,  I  will  honour. 

He  summons  me  to  attend;  and  I  mu&t  summon 
the  others. 


Promiscuous. )          SYNTAX,  73 

Then  did  the  officer  lay  hold  of  him,  and  execute 
him  immediately.  Or — The  officer  then  laid  hold 
of  him,  and  executed  him  immediately. 

Who  is  that  person  whom  I  saw  you  introduce, 
and  present  to  the  duke  ? 

I  offer  observations  which  a  long  and  chequer- 
ed pilgrimage  has  enabled  me  to  make  on  man. 

Every  church  and  sect  of  people  has  a  set  of 
opinions  peculiar  to  itself. 

Mayst  thou  a$  well  as  I,  be  meek,  patient,  and 
forgiving. 

These  men  were  under  high  obligations  io  ad- 
here to  their  friend  in  every  situation  of  life, 

After  I  Aac?  visited  Kurope,  I  returned  to  America. 

Their  example,  their  influence,  their  fortune^ 
every  talent  they  possess,  dispense  blessings  on 
all  around  them. 

When  a  string  of  such  sentences  occurs,  the 
effect  is  disagreeable. 

I  was  lately  at  Gibralter,  and  saw  the  comman- 
der in  chief. 

Propriety  of  pronunciation  consists  in  giving  to 
every  word  that  sound,  which  the  most  polite 
usage  of  the  language  appropriates  to  it. 

The  book  is  printed  very  neatly,  and  on  fine 
woven  paper. 

Many  of  the  fables  of  the  ancients  are  highly 
instructive. 

He  resembles  one  of  those  solitary  animals,  that 
have  been  forced  from  their  forests,  to  gratify  hu- 
man curiosity. 

There  neither  is,  nor  ought  to  be,  such  a  thing 
as  constructive  treason. 

He  is  a  new-created  knight,  and  his  dignity  sits 
awkwardly  on  him.  Or- -a  newly  created  knight,  &c< 

Hatred  or  revenge  deserves  censure  wherever 
it  is  found  to  exist. 

H 


yt  KEY.  (Promiscuous* 

If  you  please  to  employ  your  thoughts  on  that 
subject,  you  will  easily  conceive  our  miserable 
condition. 

His  speech  contains  one  of  the  grossest  and  most 
infamous  calumnies  that  ever  were  uttered. 

Too  great  a  variety  of  studies  dissipates  and 
weakens  the  mind, 

Each  of  those  two  authors  "has  his  merit. 

James  was  resolved  not  to  indulge  himself  in 
so  cruel  an  amusement. 

The  icant  of  attention  io  this  rule,  is  the  source 
of  a  very  common  error.  Or—  Want  of  attention, 
&c. 

Calumny  and  detraction  are  sparks,  which,  if 
you  do  not  blow  them,  will  go  out  of  themselves. 

Clelia  is  a  vain  woman,  who,  if  we  do  not  flat- 
ter  her,  will  be  disgusted. 

That  celebrated  work  had  been  nearly  ten  years 
published,  before  its  importance  was  at  all  uiufer- 
stood. 

Ambition  is  insatiable  :  it  will  make  any  sacri- 
fices to  attain  its  objects, 

A  great  mass  of  rocks  thrown  together  by  the 
hand  of  nature,  with  wildness  and  confusion, 
strikes  the  mind  with  more  grandeur,  than  if  the 
parts  had  been  adjusted  to  one  another  with  th$ 
most  accurate  symmetry. 

SECTION    3. 
Exercises,  p.  102. 

11%  showed  a  spirit  of  forgiveness,  and  a  magna- 
nimity, that  do  honour  to  human  nature. 

Them  that  honour  me,  I  will  honour ;  and  they 
that  despise  me,  shall  be  lightly  esteemed. 
Reason's  whole  pleasure,  all  the  joys  of  sense, 
Lie  in  three  words,  health,  peace,  and  competence. 

Having  thus  begun  to  throw  off  the  restraints 
of  reason,  he  \vas  soon  hurried  into  deplorably 
excesses, 


Promiscuous. )  SYNTAX.  75 

These  arts  have  enlightened  many  minds  ;  and 
they  will  enlighten  every  person  who  shall  atten- 
tively study  them. 

When  we  succed  in  our  plans,  it  is  not  always 
to  be  attributed  to  ourselves ;  the  aid  of  others  often 
promotes  the  end,  and  claims  our  acknowledgment. 

Their  intentions  were  good ;  but  wanting  pru- 
dence, they  missed  the  mark  at  which  they  aimed. 

I  have  not  consented,  nor  shall  I  consent  to  a 
proposal  so  unjust* 

We  have  subjected  ourselves  to  much  expense, 
that  thou  mayst  be  well  educated. 

This  treaty  was  made  at  the  castle  of  earl 
Moreton  the  governor. 

Be  especially  careful,  that  thou  give  no  offence 
to  the  aged  or  helpless. 

The  business  was  no  sooner  opened,  than  it  was 
cordially  acquiesced  in. 

On  account  of  his  general  conduct,  he  deserved 
punishment  as  much  as  his  companion,  and,  in- 
deed, deserved  it  more.  He  left  a  son  of  a  singu- 
lar character,  and  who  behaved  so  ill  that  he  was 
put  in  prison. 

If  he  do  but  approve  my  endeavours,  it  will  be 
an  ample  reward. 

I  hope  you  will  do  me  the  favour,  to  accept  a 
copy  of  "  A  view  of  the  manufactories,  in  the 
West  Riding  of  Yorkshire." 

I  had  intended  to  write  the  letter,  before  he 
urged  me  to  it ;  and,  therefore,  he  has  not  all  the 
merit  of  it 

All  the  power  of  ridicule,  aided  by  the  deser- 
tion of  friends,  and  the  diminution  of  his  estate, 
was  not  able  to  shake  his  principles. 

In  his  conduct  was  treachery,  and  in  his  words 
were  faithless  professions. 

Though  the  measure  is  mysterious,  it  is  worthy 
of  attention. 


^Promiscuous. 

Be  solicitous  to  aid  such  deserving  persons  as 
appear  to  be  destitute  of  friends. 

Ignorance,  or  the  want  of  light,  produces  sen- 
suality, covetousness,  and  those  violent  contests 
with  others  about  trifles,  which  occasion  so  much 
misery  and  so  many  crimes  in  the  world. 

He  will  one  day  reap  the  reward  of  his  labour. 
If  he  be  diligent  and  attentive.  Till  that  period 
come,  let  him  be  contented  and  patient. 

To  the  resolutions  which  we  have  once,  upon 
due  consideration,  adopted  as  rules  of  conduct, 
let  us  firmly  adhere. 

He  has  little  more  of  the  great  man  than  the  title. 

Though  he  were  my  superior  in  knowledge?  he 
would  not  thence  have  a  right  to  impose  his  senti- 
ments. 

That  picture  of  the  emperor,  is  a  very  exact  re- 
semblance of  him. 

How  happy  are  the  virtuous  who  can  rest  under 
the  protection  of  that  powerful  arm,  which  made 
the  earth  and  the  heavens  ! 

Prosperity  and  adversity  may  be  equally  im- 
proved :  both  the  one  and  the  other  proceed  from 
the  same  author. 

He  acted  conformably  to  his  instructions,  and 
cannot  justly  be  censured. 

The  orators  did  not  forget  to  enlarge  on  so  pop- 
iilar  a  subject 

The  language  of  Divine  Providence  to  every 
liuman  agent,  is,  "  Hitherto  shalt  thou  come,  and 
110  farther." 

Idle  persons  imagine,  that  liow  deficient  soever 
they  may  be  in  point  of  duty,  they  at  least  consult 
their  own  satisfaction. 

Good  as  the  cause  is,  it  is  one  from  which  num- 
bers have  deserted. 

The  man  is  prudent  wlio  speaks  little. 


Promiscuous.  )         SYNTAX.  77 

SECTION  4. 
Exercises,  p.  105. 

HE  acted  independently  of  foreign  assistance. 

Every  thing  that  we  here  enjoy,  changes,  decays, 
^ind  comes  to  an  end.  All  floats  on  the  surface  of 
that  river,  which,  with  swift  current,  is  running 
towards  a  boundless  ocean. 

The  winter  has  not  been  so  severe  as  we  ex- 
pected it  to  be.  Or  —  expected  -it  would  be. 

Temperance,  more  than  medicines,  is  the  proper 
means  of  curing  many  diseases. 

They  understand  the  practical  part  better  than 
Jie  does  ;  but  he  is  much  better  acquainted  witk 
the  theory  than  t  hey  are.. 

When  we  have  once  drawn  the  line,  with  intel- 
ligence and  precision,  between  duty  and  sin,  that 
line  we  ought  on  no  occasion  to  transgress. 

They  who  are  distinguished  by  extraordinary 
talents,  have  extraordinary  duties  to  perform. 

No  person  could  speak  more  strongly  on  this 
subject,  or  behave  more  nobly,  than  our  young 
advocate  for  the  cause  of  toleration. 

His  conduct  was  so  provoking,  that  many  will 
condemn  him,  and  few  will  pity  him. 

The  people's  happiness  is  the  statesman's  hon- 


We  are  in  a  perilous  situation.  On  the  one 
side,  and  on  the  other,  dangers  meet  us  ;  and  either 
extreme  will  be  pernicious  to  virtue. 

Several  pictures  of  the  Sardinian  king's  were 

transmitted  to  France.     X)r  —  Several  of  the  Sar- 

dinian  king's  pictures,  &c.      Or  —  Several  pic- 

tures belonging  to  the  king  of  Sardinia,  &c. 

When  I  last  saw  him,  he  was  grown  considerably, 

If  we  consult  either  the  improvement  of  the  mind, 
>or  the  health  of  the  body,  it  is  well  known  that  ex- 
ercise is  the  great  instrument  of  promoting  both. 

II  2 


78  KEY.  f  Promiscuous. 

If  it  were  they  who  acted  so  ungratefully,  they 
are  doubly  in  fault.  Or — If  they  acted,  &c. 

Whether  virtue  promote  our  interest  or  noty  we 
must  adhere  to  her  dictates. 

We  should  be  studious  to  avoid  too  much  Indul- 
gence, as  well  as  too  much  restraint,  in  our  man- 
agement of  children. 

No  human  happiness  is  so  great,  as  not  to  con- 
tain some  imperfection.  Or — as  to  contain  no  ini- 
perfection. 

Ilk  father  cannot  hope  for  this  success,  unless 
his  son  give  better  proofs  of  genius,  or  apply  him- 
self with  indefatigable  labour. 

The  house  framed  a  remonstrance,  in  which  ihey 
spoke  with  great  freedom  of  the  king's  prerogative. 

The  conduct  which  has  been  mentioned,  is  one 
of  those  artifices,  which  most  easily  seduce  men 
under  the  appearance  of  benevolence. 

This  is  the  person  to  whom  we  are  so  much 
obliged,  and  whom  we  expected  to  see,  when  the 
favour  wras  conferred. 

He  is  a  person  of  great  property,  but  Tie  does 
not  possess  the  esteem  of  his  neighbours. 

They  w^ere  solicitous  to  ingratiate  themselves 
with  those,  whom  It  was  dishonourable  to  favour. 

The  great  diversity  which  takes  place  among 
men,  is  not  owing  to  a  distinction  that  nature  has 
made  in  their  original  powers,  so  much  as  to  the 
superior  diligence,  with  which  some  have  improv- 
ed these  powers  beyond  others. 

While  we  are  unoccupied  by  what  is  good,  evil 
Is  continually  at  hand. 

'Tliere  is  not  a  creature  that  moves,  nor  a  veget- 
able that  grows,  "but  which,  when  minutely  exam- 
ined, furnishes  materials  for  pious  admiration. 

What  can  be  the  reason  of  the  committee's  hav- 
ing delayed  this  business  ?  Or —  What  can  be  the 
committee's  reason  for  having  delay  edth  is  b  nsin  ess? 


Promiscuous. )         SYNTAX,  79 

I  know  not  whether  Charles  was  the  author,  but 
I  understood  it  to  be  him. 

A  good  and  well-cultivated  mind,  is  greatly 
preferable  to  rank  or  riches. 

When  charity  to  the  poor  is  governed  by  knowl- 
edge and  prudence,  every  one  admits  it  to  be  a  virtue , 

His  greatest  concern,  and  highest  enjoyment, 
was  to  be  approved  in  the  sight  of  his  Creator. 

Let  us  not  set  our  hearts  on  so  mutable,  so  un- 
satisfying a  world. 

SECTION    5. 
Exercises,  p.  107. 

SHALL  you  attain  success,  without  that  prepar- 
ation, and  escape  dangers  without  that  precaution., 
which  are  required  of  others  ? 

When  wre  see  bad  men  honoured  and  prosperous 
in  the  world,  it  is  some  discouragement  to  virtue* 

The  furniture  was  all  purchased  at  Wentworth's 
ike,  joiner. 

Every  member  of  the  body,  every  bone,  joint, 
and  muscle,  lies  exposed  to  many  disorders ;  and  the 
greatest  prudence  or  precaution,  or  the  deepest  skill 
of  the  physician,  'is  not  sufficient  to  prevent  them- 

It  is  rightly  said,  that  though  faith  justifies  us, 
yet  works  may  justify  our  faith. 

If  an  academy  be  established  for  the  cultiva- 
tion of  our  language,  let  the  members  of  it  stop  the 
license  of  translators  ;  whose  idleness  and  ignor- 
ance, if  they  be  suffered  to  proceed,  will  reduce  us 
to  babble  a  dialect  of  French. 

It  is  of  great  consequence  that  a  teacher  should 
firmly  believe,  both  the  truth  and  the  importance 
of  those  principles  which  he  inculcates  on  others  ; 
and  not  only  that  he  should  speculatively  believe 
them,  but  have  a  lively  and  serious  feeling  of  them. 

It  is  not  the  uttering,  or  the  hearing  of  certain 
7,rords;  that  constitutes  the  worship  of  the  Al- 


80  KET,  (Promiscuous. 

mighty.  It  is  the  heart  that  praises,  or  prays. 
If  the  heart  accompanies  not  the  words  that  are 
spoken,  we  offer  the  sacrifice  of  fools. 

Neither  flatter  nor  contemn  the  rich  or  the  great. 

He  has  travelled  much,  and  passed  through  ma- 
ny stormy  seas,  and  over  extensive  tracts  of  land. 

Yon  must  be  sensible  that  there  is,  and  can  be 
no  other  person  than  myself,  who  could  give  the 
information  desired.  Or—no  person  but  myself,  &c. 
To  be  patient,  resigned,  and  thankful,  under  afflic- 
tions and  disappointments,  demonstrates  genuine 
piety. 

Alvarez  was  a  man  of  corrupt  principles,  and 
detestable  conduct ;  and-,  what  is  still  worse,  lie 
gloried  in  his  shame. 

As  soon  as  the  sense  of  a  Supreme  Being  is  lost, 
the  great  check  is  taken  off,  which  keeps  under  re- 
straint the  passions  of  men.  Mean  desires,  and 
low  pleasures,  take  place  of  the  greater  and  nobler 
sentiments  which  reason  and  religion  inspire. 

We  should  be  careful  not  to  follow  the  exam- 
ple of  many  persons,  iclio  censure  the  opinions, 
manners,  and  customs  of  others,  merely  because 
they  are  foreign  to  them. 

Steady  application,  as  well  as  genius  and  abiL 
ities,  is  necessary  to  produce  eminence. 

There  are,  in  that  seminary,  several  students  iclio 
are  considerably  skilled  ia  mathematical  knowl- 
edge. 

If  Providence  clothes  the  grass  of  the  field;  and 
shelters  and  adorns  the  flowers  that  -every  where 
grow  wild  amongst  it,  will  he  not  much  more 
clothe  and  protect  his  servants  and  children  ? 

We  are  too  often  hurried  by  the  violence  of  pas- 
sion, or  ensnared  by  the  allurements  of  pleasure. 

High  hopes,  and  florid  views;  are  great  enemies 
to  tranquility. 


Promiscuous. )          SYNTAX*  81 

Year  after  year  steals  something  from  us ;  till 
the  decaying  fabric  totter  of  itself,  and  crumble  at 
length  into  dust.  Or — shall  totter,  &c. 

I  had  intended  to  finish  the  letter  before  the 
bearer  called,  that  he  might  not  be  detained ;  but 
I  was  prevented  by  company. 

George  is  the  most  learned  and  accomplished  of 
all  the  students  that  belong  to  the  seminary. 

This  excellent  and  well  written  treatise,  with 
others  that  might  be  mentioned,  was  the  foundation 
of  his  love  of  study* 

There  can  be  no  doubt  that  the  pleasures  of  the 
mind  excel  those  of  sense. 

SECTION  6a 
Exercises,  p.  109- 

THE  grand  temple  consisted  of  one  great  edifice? 
aiid  several  smaller  ones. 

Many  would  gladly  exchange  their  honours., 
beauty,  and  riches,  for  that  more  quiet  and  hum- 
ble station,  with  which  you  are  now  dissatisfied. 

Though  the  scene  was  a  very  affecting  one,  Louis 
showed  little  emotion  on  the  occasion. 

The  climate  of  England  is  not  so  pleasant  as 
that  of  France,  Spain,  or  Italy. 

Much  of  the  good  and  evil  that  happen  to  us  in 
this  world,  is  owing  to  apparently  undesigned  and 
fortuitous  events  :  but  it  is  the  Supreme  Being 
who  secretly  directs  and  regulates  all  things. 

To  despise  others  on  account  of  their  poverty, 
or  to  value  ourselves  for  our  wealth,  is  a  disposi- 
tion highly  culpable, 

This  task  was  the  more  easily  performed,  from 
the  cheerfulness  with  which  he  engaged  in  it. 

She  lamented  the  unhappy  fate  of  Lucretia, 
whose  name  seemed  to  her  another  word  for  chas- 
tity, 


8S  KEY.  {Promiscuous, 

He  has  not  yet  cast  off  all  regard  for  decency  ; 
and  this  is  the  most  that  can  be  advanced  in  his 
favour. 

Tht  girls'  school  WSL&  formerly  better  conduct^ 
ed  than  the  boys9.  Or — -than  that  of  the  boys. 

The  loss  of  his  much-loved  friend,  or  the  dis* 
appointments  he  has  met  with,  have  occasioned  the 
total  derangement  of  his  mental  powers. 

The  concourse  of  people  was -so  great,  that  we 
passed  with  difficulty. 

All  the  women,  children,  and  treasure,  that  re- 
mained in  the  city,  fell  under  the  victor's  power. 

They  have  already  made  great  progress  in  their 
studies,  and,  if  attention  and  diligence  continue, 
they  will  soon  fulfil  the  expectations  of  their 
friends. 

His  propensity  to  this  vice,  against  every  prin- 
ciple of  interest  and  honour,  is  amazing. 

This  kind  of  vice,  though  it  inhabits  the  uppef 
circles  of  life,  is  not  less  pernicious,  than  that 
which  we  meet  with  amongst  the  lowest  of  men. 

He  acted  agreeably  to  the  dictates  of  prudence, 
though  he  was  in  a  situation  exceedingly  delicate. 

If  I  had  known  the  distress  of  my  friend,  it 
would  have  been  my  duty  to  relieve  him ;  and  it 
would  always  have  yielded  me  pleasure  to  have 
granted  him  that  relief. 

They  admired  the  candour  and  uprightness  of 
tfee  countryman,  as  they  called  him. 

The  set  of  neiv  curtains  did  not  correspond  to 
the  pair  of  old  blinds. 

The  tutor  commends  him  for  being  more  studi- 
ous than  any  other  pupil  of  the  school.  Or— for 
being  the  most  studious  pupil  of  the  schooL 

Two  principles  in  human  nature  reign  ; 
Self-love  to  urge,  and  reason  to  restrain  : 
Nor  this  a  good,  nor  that  a  bad  we  call ; 
Each  works  its  eud,  to  move  or  govern  all* 


Promiscuous.}         SYNTAX.  83 

Temperance  and  exercise,  how  little  soever 
they  may  be  regarded,  are  the  best  means  of  pre- 
serving health. 

He  has  greatly  blessed  me ;  yes,  even  me,  who, 
loaded  with  kindness,  have  not  been  sufficiently 
grateful, 

No  persons  feel  so  much  the  distresses  of  others, 
as  they  ivho  have  experienced  distress  themselves, 

SECTION  7« 

Exercises,  p.  110. 

Constantinople  was  the  point,  in  which  were 
concentrated  the  learning  and  science  of  the  world. 

Disgrace  not  your  station,  by  that  grossness  of 
sensuality,  that  levity  of  dissipation,  or  that  inso- 
lence of  rank,  which  bespeaks  a  little  mind. 

A  circle,  a  square,  a  triangle,  or  a  hexagon, 
pleases  the  eye  by  its  regularity,  as  a  beautiful 
figure. 

His  conduct  was  equally  unjust  and ^  dishonour- 
able. Or — -was  as  unjust  as  it  was  dishonourable. 

Though,  at  first,  he  began  to  defend  himself, 
yet,  when  the  proofs  appeared  against  him,  he 
durst  not  any  longer  contend. 

Many  persons  will  not  believe  that  they  are  in- 
luenced  by  prejudices.  Or — Many  persons  be- 

ve  that  they  are  free  from  prejudices. 

The  pleasure  or  pain  of  one  passion,  differs 
from  that  of  another. 

The  rise  and  fall  of  the  tides,  in  this  place,  make 
a  difference  of  about  twelve  feet. 

Five  and  seven  make  twelve,  and  one  make 
thirteen. 

He  did  not  know  ivhom  to  suspect. 

I  intended  yesterday  to  walk  out,  but  I  was 
again  disappointed. 

The  court  of  Spain,  which  gave  the  order,  was 
Hot  aware  of  the  consequence. 


84  KEY.  ('Promiscuous. 

If  the  acquisitions  which  he  has  made,  and 
which,  have  qualified  him  to  be  a  useful  member  of 
society,  should  be  misapplied,  he  will  be  highly 
culpable. 

There  was  much  spoken  and  written  on  each 
side  of  the  question ;  but  I  have  chosen  to  suspend 
my  decision. 

Were  there  no  bad  men  in  the  world,  to  vex 
and  distress  the  good,  these  might  appear  in  the 
light  of  harmless  innocence ;  but  they  could  have 
no  opportunity  of  displaying  fidelity,  magnanim- 
ity, patience,  and  fortitude. 

The  most  ignorant  and  savage  tribes  of  men, 
when  they  looked  round  on  the  earth,  and  the 
heavens,  could  not  avoid  ascribing  their  origin  to 
some  invisible,  designing  cause,  and  feeling  a  pro- 
pensity to  adore  their  Creator. 

Let  us  not  forget,  that  something  more  than 
gentleness  and  modesty,  than  complacency  of  tem- 
per and  affability  of  manners,  is  requisite  to  form 
a  worthy  man,  or  a  true  Christian. 

One  of  the  first,  and  the  most  common  extremes 
in  moral  conduct,  is  that  of  placing  all  virtue  either 
in  justice,  on  the  one  hand,  or  in  generosity,  on 
the  other. 

It  is  an  inflexible  regard  to  principle,  which  has 
ever  marked  the  characters  of  those  who  have  emi- 
nently distinguished  themselves  in  public  life  ; 
who  have  patronised  the  cause  of  justice  against 
powerful  oppressors  ;  who,  in  critical  times,  have 
supported  the  falling  rights  and  liberties  of  men  ; 
and  have  reflected  honour  on  their  nation  and 
country. 

When  it  is  with  regard  to  trifles,  that  diversity 
or  contrariety  of  opinions  shows  itself,  it  is  child- 
ish in  the  last  degree,  if  this  become  the  ground  of 
estranged  affection.  When,  from  such  a  cause? 


Promiscuous, )          SYNTAX.  85 

there  arises  any  breach  of  friendship,  human 
weakness  is  discovered  in  a  mortifying  light.  In 
matters  of  serious  moment,  the  sentiments  of  the 
best  and  worthiest  may  vary  from  those  of  their 
friends,  according  as  their  lines  of  life  diverge,  or 
as  their  temper,  and  habits  of  tliought,  present  ob- 
jects under  different  points  of  view.  But  by  can- 
did and  liberal  minds,  unity  of  affection  will  still 
be  preserved. 

Desires  and  wishes  are  the  first  springs  of  ac- 
tion. Whep  they  become  exorbitant,  the  whole 
character  is  likely  to  be  tainted.  If  we  suffer  our 
fancy  to  create  to  itself  words  of  ideal  happiness  ; 
if  we  feed  our  imagination  with  plans  of  oppulence 
and  splendour;  if  we  fix  to  our  wishes  certain 
stages  of  high  advancement,  or  certain  degrees  of 
uncommon  reputation,  as  the  sole  stations  of  feli- 
city ;  the  assured  consequence  will  be,  that  we 
shall  become  unhappy  in  our  present  state ;  unfit 
for  acting  the  part,  and  discharging  the  duties  that 
belong  to  it ;  we  shalj  discompose  the  peace  and 
order  of  our  minds,  and  shall  foment  many  hurt* 
ful  passions. 

Maria  always  appears  amiable.  She  never 
§peaks  severely  or  contemptuously. 


PART  IV. 

PUNCTUATION. 

CHAP.  I, 

Containing  applications  of  the  Comma,  disposed, 
under  the  particular  Rules* 

Grammar,  p.  257.    Exercises,  p.  1 14. 

RULE  I, 

THE  tear  of  repentance  brings  its  own  relief. 

Manhood  is  disgraced  by  the  consequences  of 
neglected  youth. 

Idleness  is  the  great  fqmenter  of  $11  corruptions 
in  the  human  heart, 

It  is  honourable  to  be  a  friend  to  the  unfortunate. 

All  finery  is  a  sign  of  littleness, 

Slovenliness  and  indelicacy  of  character  com- 
monly go  hand  in  hand, 

The  friend  of  order  has  made  half  his  way  to 
virtue, 

Too  many  of  the  pretended  friendships  of  youth, 
are  mere  combinations  in  pleasure. 

The  indulgence  of  harsh  dispositions,  is  the  in- 
troduction to  future  misery. 

The  intermixture  of  evil  in  human  society, 
serves  to  exercise  the  suffering  graces  and  virtues 
pf  the  good, 


X 

Comma.)  PUNCTUATION.  87 

RULE  n. 

Grammar,  p.  258.     Exercises,  p.  114. 

Gentleness  is,  in  truth,  the  great  avenue  to  mu- 
tual enjoyment. 

Charity,  like  the  sun,  brightens  all  its  objects. 

The  tutor,  by  instruction  and  discipline,  lays 
the  foundation  of  the  pupiPs  future  honour. 

Trials,  in  this  stage  of  being,  are  the  lot  of  man. 

No  assumed  behaviour  can  always  hide  the  real 
character. 

The  best  men  often  experience  disappointments. 

Advice  should  be  seasonably  administered. 

RULE    III. 

Self-conceit,  presumption,  and  obstinacy,  blast 
the  prospect  of  many  a  youth. 

In  our  health,  life,  possessions,  connexions, 
pleasures,  there  are  causes  of  decay  imperceptibly 
working. 

Discomposed  thoughts,  agitated  passions,  and 
a  ruffled  temper,  poison  every  pleasure  of  life. 

Vicissitudes  of  good  and  evil,  of  trials  and  con- 
solations, fill  up  the  life  of  man. 

Health  and  peace,  a  moderate  fortune,  and  a 
few  friends,  sum  up  all  the  undoubted  articles  of 
temporal  felicity. 

We  have  no  reason  to  complain  of  the  lot  of 
man,  or  of  the  world's  mutability. 

RULE    IV. 
Grammar,  p.  259.     Exercises,  p.  115. 

An  idle,  trifling  society  is  near  akin  to  such  as 
Is  corrupting. 

Conscious  guilt  renders  us  mean-spirited,  timo- 
rous, and  base. 

An  upright  mind  will  never  be  at  a  loss  to  dis- 
cern what  is  just  and  true,  lovely,  honest,  and  of 
good  report 


28  KEY.  (Comma. 

The  vicious  man  is  often  looking  round  him, 
with  anxious  and  fearful  circumspection. 

True  friendship  will,  at  all  times,  avoid  a  care- 
less  or  rough  behaviour. 

Time  brings  a  gentle  and  powerful  opiate  to  all 
misfortunes. 

RULE  v- 
Grammar,  p.  260    Exercises,  p.  116. 

The  man  of  virtue  and  honour  will  be  trusted, 
relied  upon,  and  esteemed. 

Deliberate  slowly,  execute  promptly. 

A  true  friend  unbosoms  freely,  advises  justly, 
assists  readily,  adventures  boldly,  takes  all  pa- 
tiently, defends  resolutely,  and  continues  a  friend 
unchangeably. 

Sensuality  contaminates  the  body,  depresses  the 
understanding,  deadens  the  moral  feelings  of  the 
heart,  and  degrades  man  from  his  rank  in  the 
creation. 

Idleness  brings  forward  and  nourishes  many 
bad  passions. 

We  must  stand  or  fall  by  our  own  conduct  and 
character. 

The  man  of  order  catches  and  arrests  the  hours 
as  they  fly. 

The  great  business  of  life  is,  to  be  employed  in 
doing  justly,  loving  mercy,  and  walking  humbly 
with  our  Creator. 

RULE    Vic 
Grammar,  p.  260.     Exercises,  p.  116. 

This  unhappy  person  had  often  been  seriously, 
affectionately  admonished,  but  in  vain. 

To  live  soberly,  righteously,  and  piously,  com- 
prehends the  whole  of  our  duty. 

When  thy  friend  is  calumniated,  openly  and 
boldly  espouse  his  cause. 


Comna.J  PUNCTUATION.  89 

Benefits  should  be  long  and  gratefully  remem- 
bered. 

RULE  VII. 

True  gentleness  is  native  feeling,  heightened 
and  improved  by  principle. 

The  path  of  piety  and  virtue,  pursued  with  a 
firm  and  constant  spirit,  will  assuredly  lead  to  hap- 
piness. 

Human  affairs  are  in  continual  motion  and  fluc- 
tuation, altering  their  appearance  every  moment, 
and  passing  into  some  new  forms. 

What  can  be  said  to  alarm  those  of  their  dan- 
ger, who,  intoxicated  with  pleasures,  become  gid- 
dy and  insolent ;  who,  flattered  by  the  illusions  of 
prosperity,  make  light  of  every  serious  admonition, 
which  their  friends,  and  the  changes  of  the  world, 
give  them  ? 

RULE   VIII. 
Grammar,  p.  260.      Exercises,  p.  117. 

If,  from  any  internal  cause,  a  man's  peace  of 
mind  be  disturbed,  in  vain  wre  load  him  with  rich- 
-es  .or  honours. 

Gentleness  delights,  above  all  things,  io  allevi- 
ate distress  ;  and,  if  it  cannot  dry  up  the  falling 
tear,  to  sooth  at  least  the  grieving  heart. 

Wherever  Christianity  prevails,  it  has  discour- 
aged, and,  in  some  degree,  abolished  slavery. 

We  may  rest  assured  that,  by  the  steady  pursuit 
of  virtue,  we  shall  obtain  and  enjoy  it. 

RULE   IX. 

Continue,  my  dear  child,  to  mate  virtue  thy 
principal  study. 

To  you,  my  worthy  benefactors,  am  I  indebted, 
under  Providence;  for  all  I  enjoy. 

I   2 


90  KEY.  f Comma. 

Canst  tliou  expect,  thou  betrayer  of  innocence, 
to  escape  the  hand  of  vengeance  ? 

Come  then,  companion  of  my  toils,  let  us  take 
fresh  courage,  persevere,  and  hope  to  the  end. 

IIULE  x. 

Peace  of  mind  being  secured,  we  may  smile  at 
misfortunes. 

Virtue  abandoned,  and  conscience  reproaching 
us,  \ve  become  terrified  with  imaginary  evils. 

Charles  having  been  deprived  of  the  help  of 
tutors,  his  studies  became  totally  neglected. 

To  prevent  further  altercation,  I  submitted  to 
the  terms  proposed. 

To  enjoy  present  pleasure,  he  sacrificed  hi  s  fu- 
ture ease  and  reputation. 

To  say  the  least,  they  have  betray  ed  great  want 
of  prudence. 

RULE    XI. 

Grammar,  p.  261.    Exercises,  p.  118. 

Hope,  the  balm  of  life,  sooths  us  under  every 
misfortune. 

Content,  the  offspring  of  virtue,  dwells  both  in 
retirement,  and  in  the  active  scenes  of  life. 

Confucius,  the  great  Chinese  philosopher,  was 
eminently  good,  as  well  as  wise. 

The  patriarch  Joseph,  is  an  illustrious  example 
of  chastity,  resignation,  and  filial  affection* 

RULE  XIK 

Nothing  is  so  opposite  to  the  true  enjoyment  of 
life,  as  the  relaxed  and  feeble  state  of  an  indolent 
mind. 

The  more  a  man  speaks  of  himself,  the  less  ha 
likes  to  hear  another  talked  of. 


Comma.}  PUNCTUATION.  <)i 

Nothing  more  strongly  inculcates  resignation, 
than  the  experience  of  our  own  inability  to  guide 
ourselves. 

The  friendships  of  the  world,  can  subsist  no 
longer  than  interest  cements  them. 

Expect  no  more  from  the  world  than  it  is  able 
to  afford  you, 

RULE  XIII. 

Grammar,  p.  261.    Exercises,  p.  118. 

He  who  is  a  stranger  to  industry,  may  possess, 
but  he  cannot  enjoy. 

Contrition,  though  it  may  melt,  ought  not  to 
sink  or  overpower  the  heart  of  a  Christian. 

The  goods  of  this  world  were  given  to  man  for 
his  occasional  refreshment,  not  for  his  chief  felicity . 

It  is  the  province  of  superiors  to  direct,  of  infe- 
riors to  obey;  of  the  learned,  to  be  instructive,  of 
the  ignorant  to  be  docile  ;  of  the  old  to  be  com- 
municative, of  the  young  to  be  attentive  and  dili- 
gent. 

Though  unavoidable  calamities  make  a  part, 
yet  they  make  not  the  chief  part,  of  the  vexations 
and  sorrows  that  distress  human  life. 

An  inquisitive  and  meddling  spirit,  often  inter- 
rupts the  good  order,  and  breaks  the  peace  of  so- 
ciety, 

&ULE    XIV. 
Grammar,  p.  £62      Exercises,  p.  119. 

Vice  is  not  of  such  a  nature,  that  we  can  say  to 
it,  «  Hitherto  shalt  thou  come,  and  no  further." 

One  of  the  noblest  of  the  Christian  virtues,  is, 
*<  to  love  our  enemies." 

Many  too  confidently  say  to  themselves,  "My 
mountain  stands  strong,  and  it  shall  never  be  re- 
moved." 

We  are  strictly  enjoined;  "not  to  follow  a  mul- 
titude to  do  eviL" 


9£  KEY.  {Comma. 

RULE  xv. 
Grammar,  p.  262.     Exercises,  p.  119. 

The  gentle  mind  is  like  the  smooth  stream, 
which  reflects  every  object  in  its  just  proportion, 
and  in  its  fairest  colours. 

Beware  of  those  rash  and  dangerous  connexions, 
which  may  afterwards  load  you  with  dishonour. 

Blind  must  that  man  be,  who  discerns  not  the 
most  striking  marks  of  a  Divine  government,  exer- 
cised over  the  world, 

It  is  labour  only  which  gives  the  relish  to 
pleasure. 

In  that  unaffected  civility  which  springs  from  a 
gentle  mind,  there  is  an  incomparable  charm. 

They  who  raise  envy,  will  easily  incur  censure. 

Many  of  the  evils  which  occasion  our  com- 
plaints  of  the  world,  are  wholly  imaginary, 

He  who  is  good  before  invisible  witnesses,  is 
eminently  so  before  the  visible. 

His  conduct,  so  disinterested  and  generous,  was 
universally  approved. 

RULE    XVI. 

Exercises,  p.  120. 

The  fumes  which  firise  from  a  heart  boiling  with 
violent  passions^  never  fail  to  darken  and  trouble 
the  understanding. 

If  we  delay  till  to-morrow  what  ought  to  be 
done  to-day,  we  overcharge  the  morrow  with  a 
burden  which  belongs  nx>t  to  it 

By  whatever  means  we  may  at  first  attract  the 
attention,  we  can  hold  the  esteem,  and  secure  the 
hearts  of  others,  only  by  amiable  dispositions,  and 
the  accomplishments  of  the  mind. 

If  the  mind -sow  not  corn,  it  will  plant  thistles. 

One  day  is  sufficient  to  scatter  our  prosperity, 
and  bring  it  to  nought. 

Graceful  in  youth,  are  the  tears  of  sympathy; 
and  the  heart  that  melts  at  the  tale  of  wo* 


Comma.}  PUNCTUATION.  93 

The  ever  active  and  restless  power  of  thought, 
if  not  employed  about  what  is  good,  will  naturally 
and  unavoidably  engender  evil. 

He  who  formed  the  heart,  certainly  knows  wrhat 
passes  within  it. 

To  be  humble  and  modest  in  opinion,  to  be  vig- 
ilant and  attentive  in  conduct,  to  distrust  fair  ap- 
pearances, and  to  restrain  rash  desires,  are  instruc- 
tions which  the  darkness  of  our  present  state 
should  strongly  inculcate. 

RULE  xvn* 
Grammar,  p.  263.    Exercises,  p.  MO. 

The  greatest  misery  is,  to  be  condemned  by  our 
own  hearts. 

The  greatest  misery  that  we  can  endure,  is,  to 
be  condemned  by  our  own  hearts. 

Charles' highest  enjoyment  was,  to  relieve  the 
distressed,  and  to  do  good. 

The  highest  enjoyment  that  Charles  ever  expe- 
rienced, was,  to  relieve  the  distressed,  and  to  do 
good, 

RULE    XVIII. 
Exercises,  p.  121. 

If  opulence  increases  our  gratifications,  it  in- 
creases, in  the  same  proportion,  our  desires  and 
demands. 

He  whose  wishes,  respecting  the  possessions  of 
this  world,  are  the  most  reasonable  and  bounded, 
is  likely  to  lead  the  safest,  and,  for  that  reason,  the 
most  desirable  life. 

By  aspiring  too  high,  we  frequently  miss  the 
happiness,  which,  by  a  less  ambitious  aim,  we 
might  have  gained. 

By  proper  management,  we  prolortg  our  time  : 
we  live  more,  in  a  few  years,  than  others  do  in  many,. 

In  your  most  secret  actions,  suppose  that  you 
have  all  the  world  for  witnesses. 


M  KEY*  f  Comma. 

In  youth,  the  habits  of  industry  are  most  easily 
acquired. 

What  is  the  right  path,  few  take  the  trouble  of 
inquiring* 

RULE    XIX* 
Grammar,  p.  263.    Exercises,  p.  121. 

Providence  never  intended,  that  any  state  here 
should  be  either  completely  happy,  or  entirely  mis- 
erable, 

As  a  companion,  he  was  severe  and  satirical ; 
as  a  friend,  captious  and  dangerous ;  in  his  do- 
mestic sphere,  harsh,  jealous,  and  irascible. 

If  the  spring1  put  forth  no  blossoms,  in  summer 
there  will  be  no  foeauty,  and  in  Autumn,  no  fruit. 
So,  if  youtti  be  trifled  away  without  improvement, 
manhood  wilPae  contemptible,  &  old  age,  miserable- 

HULE   XX. 

Be  assured,  then,  that  order,  frugality,  and  econ* 
omy,  are  the  necessary  supports,  of  every  personal 
and  private  virtue. 

I  proceed,  secondly,  to  point  out  the  propel* 
state  of  our  temper,  with  respect  to  one  another. 

Here,  every  thing  is  in  stir  and  fluctuation  ; 
there,  all  is  serene,  steady,  and  orderly. 

I  shall  make  some  observations,  first,  on  the  ex- 
ternal, and  next,  on  the  internal,  condition  of  man. 

Sometimes,  timidity  and  false  shame  prevent 
our  opposing  vicious  customs  ;  frequently,  expect- 
ation and  interest  impel  us  strongly  to  comply. 

CHAP.  II. 

Containing  insertions  of  the  Semicolon  and  Comma,- 
Grammar,  p,  264.     Exercises,  p.  122. 

THAT  darkness  of  character,  where  we  can  see 
no  heart ;  those  foldings  of  art  through  which  no 
native  affection  is  allowed  to  penetrate  :  present  an 


Semicolon,  $£c,J  PUNCTUATION.  95 

object,  unamiable  in  every  season  of  life,  but  par- 
ticularly odious  in  youth. 

To  give  an  early  preference  to  honour  above 
gain,  when  they  stand  in  competition  ;  to  despise 
every  advantage  which  cannot  be  attained  without 
dishonest  arts  ;  to  brook  no  meanness,  and  to  stoop 
to  no  dissimulation ;  are  the  indications  of  a  great 
mind,  the  presages  of  future  eminence  and  useful- 
ness in  life, 

As  there  is  a  worldly  happiness,  which  God  per- 
ceives to  be  no  other  than  disguised  misery  ;  as 
there  are  worldly  honours,  which,  in  his  estima- 
tion, are  reproach ;  so  there  is  a  worldly  wisdom, 
which,  in  his  sight,  is  foolishness. 

The  passions  are  the  chief  destroyers  of  our 
peace ;  the  storms  and  tempests  of  the  moral  world. 

Heaven  is  the  region  of  gentleness  and  friend- 
ship ;  hell,  of  fierceness  and  animosity. 

The  path  of  truth,  is  a  plain  and  safe  path ; 
that  of  falsehood,  is  a  perplexing  maze. 

Modesty  is  one  of  the  chief  ornaments  of  youth  ; 
and  has  ever  been  esteemed  a  presage  of  rising 
merit. 

Life,  with  a  swift,  though  insensible  course, 
glides  away  ;  and,  like  a  river  which  undermines 
its  banks,  gradually  impairs  our  state. 

The  violent  spirit,  like  troubled  waters,  renders 
back  the  images  of  things  distorted  and  broken ; 
and  communicates  to  them  all  that  disordered  mo-, 
tion,  which  arises  solely  from  its  own  agitation. 

Levity  is  frequently  the  forced  production  of  fol- 
ly or  vice  ;  cheerfulness  is  the  natural  offspring  of 
wisdom  and  virtue  only. 

Persons  who  live  according  to  order,  may  be 
compared  to  the  celestial  bodies,  which  move  in 
regular  courses,  and  by  stated  laws  ;  whose  influ- 
ence is  beneficent  5  whose  operations  are  quiet 
tranquil. 


06  KEY.  f  Colon,  Sfc. 

CHAP.  III. 

Containing  applications  of  the  Colon,  §*<?. 

Grammar,  p.  265.     Exercises,  p.  123. 

THE  three  great  enemies  to  tranqnility,  are  vice, 
superstition^  and  idleness  :  vice,  which  poisons 
and  disturbs  the  mind  with  bad  passions ;  super- 
stition, which  fills  it  with  imaginary  terrors  ;  idle- 
ness, which  loads  it  with  tedionsness  and  disgust. 

To  sail  on  the  tranquil  surface  of  an  unruflecl 
lake,  and  to  steer  a  safe  course  through  a  troub- 
led and  stormy  ocean,  require  different  talents  ; 
and,  alas  !  human  life  oftener  resembles  the  stormy 
ocean,  than  the  minified  lake. 

When  we  look  forward  to  the  year  which  is  be- 
ginning, what  do  we  behold  there  ?  All,  my  bre- 
thren, is  a  blank  to  our  view :  a  dark  unknown 
presents  itself. 

Happy  would  the  poor  man  think  himself,  if  he 
could  enter  on  all  the  treasures  of  the  rich :  and 
happy  for  a  short  time  he  might  be  :  but  before  he 
had  long  contemplated  and  admired  his  state,  his 
possessions  would  seem  to  lessen,  and  his  cares 
would  grow. 

By  doing,  or  at  least  endeavouring  to  do,  our 
duty  to  God  and  man ;  by  acquiring  an  humble 
trust  in  the  mercy  and  favour  of  God,  through  Je- 
sus Christ;  by  cultivating  our  minds,  and  properly 
employing  our  time  ai|d  thoughts  ;  by  governing 
our  passions  and  our  temper ;  by  correcting  all  un- 
reasonable expectations  from  the  world,  and  from 
men ;  and,  in  the  midst  of  worldly  business,  ha- 
bituating ourselves  to  calm  retreat  and  serious  re- 
flection :  by  such  means  as  these,  it  may  be  hoped, 
that,  through  the  Divine  blessing,  our  days  shall 
flow  in  a  stream  as  unruffled  as  the  human  state 
admits. 


Period,  8[c.J       PUNCTUATION.  97 

A  Metaphor  is  a  comparison,  expressed  in  an 
abridged  form,  but  without  any  of  the  words  that 
denote  comparison :  as,  "  To  th6  upright  there 


ariseth  light  in  darkness." 

All  our  conduct  towards  men,  should  be  influ- 
enced by  this  important  precept  :  "  Do  unto 
others,  as  you  would  that  others  should  do  unto 
you." 

Philip  III.  king  of  Spain,  when  he  drew  near 
the  end  of  his  days,  seriously  reflecting  on  his  past 
life,  and  greatly  affected  with  the  remembrance  of 
his  mispent  time,  expressed  his  deep  regret  in 
these  terms :  "  Ah !  how  happy  would  it  have 
been  for  me,  had  I  spent,  in  retirement,  these 
twenty-three  years,  that  J  have  possessed  my 
kingdom !" 

Often  is  the  smile  of  gaiety  assumed,  whilst 
the  heart  aches  within  :  though  folly  may  laugh, 
guilt  will  sting. 

There  is  no  mortal  truly  wise  and  restless  at 
once  :  wisdom  is  the  repose  of  minds. 

CHAR  IV. 

Containing  insertians  of  the  Period,  8{c. 

Grammar,  p.  266.    Exercises,  p.  125. 

THE  absence  of  evil  is  a  real  good.  Peace, 
quiet,  exemption  from  pain,  should  be  a  continual 
feast. 

Worldly  happiness  ever  tends  to  destroy  itself 
by  corrupting  the  heart.  It  fosters  the  loose  and 
the  violent  passions.  It  engenders  noxious  hab- 
its ;  and  taints  the  mind  with  false  delicacy,  which 
makes  it  feel  a  thousand  unreal  evils. 

Feeding  the    hungry,    clothing  the    naked, 


98  KEY.  {Period,  %'c. 

comforting  the  afflicted,  yield  more  pleasure  than  we 
receive  from  those  actions  which  respect  only  our- 
selves. Benevolence  may,  in  this  view,  be  termed 
the  most  refined  self-love. 

The  resources  of  virtue  remain  entire,  when  the 
days  of  trouble  come,  They  remain  with  us  in 
sickness,  as  in  health  }  in  poverty,  as  in  the  midst 
of  riches  ;  in  our  dark  and  solitary  hours,  no  less 
than  when  surrounded  with  friends  and  cheerful 
society.  The  mind  of  a  good  man  is  a  kingdom 
to  him,  and  he  can  always  enjoy  it. 

TVe  ruin  the  happiness  of  life,  when  we  attempt 
to  raise  it  too  high.  A  tolerable  and  comfortable 
state,  is  all  that  \ve  c^n  propose  to  ourselves  on 
earth.  Peace  and  contentment,  not  bliss,  nor 
transport,  are  the  full  portion  of  man,  Perfect 
joy  is  reserved  for  heaven, 

If  we  look  around  us,  we  shall  perceive  that 
the  whole  universe  is  full  of  active  powers.  Ac^ 
tion  is  indeed  the  genius  of  nature,  By  motion 
and  exertion,  the  system  of  being  is  preserved  in 
vigour.  By  its  different  parts  always  acting  in  sub- 
ordination one  to  another,  the  perfection  of  the 
whole  is  carried  on.  The  heavenly  bodies  per- 
petually revolve.  Day  and  night  incessantly  re- 
peat their  appointed  course,  Continual  operations 
are  going  on  in  the  earth,  and  in  the  waters.  No- 
thing stands  still. 

Constantine  the  Great,  was  advanced  to  the  sole 
dominion  of  the  Roman  World,  A.  D.  325  ;  and 
soon  after  openly  professed  the  Christian  faith. 

The  letter  concludes  with  this  remarkable 
Postcript :  "  P.  S.  Though  I  am  innocent  of  the 
charge,  and  have  been  bitterly  persecuted,  yet  I 
cordially  forgive  my  enemies  and  persecutors." 

The  last  edition  of  that  valuable  work,  was 
carefully  compared  with  the  Original  MS, 


Interrogation,  ££c.J  PUNCTUATION,  39 

CHAP.  V. 

Containing  applications  of  the  Dash  ;  of  the 
Notes  of  Interrogation  and  Exclamation  ;  and 
of  the  Parenthetical  characters. 

Grammar,  p.  267.    Exercises,  p.  126. 

BEAUTY  and  strength,  combined  with  virtue 
and  piety, — how  lovely  in  the  sight  of  men  !  how 
pleasing  to  Heaven  !  peculiarly  pleasing,  because 
with  every  temptation  to  deviate,  they  voluntarily 
walk  in  the  path  of  duty. 

Something  there  is  more  needful  than  expense ; 
And  something  previous  e'en  to  taste  5 — tis  sense. 

66  Pll  live  to-morrow,"  will  a  wise  man  say  ? 
To-morrow  is  too  late  : — then  live  to-day. 

Gripus  has  long  been  ardently  endeavouring  to 
fill  his  chest :  and  lo  !  it  is  now  full.  Is  he  happy  ? 
and  does  he  use  it  ?  Does  he  gratefully  think  of 
the  Giver  of  all  good  things  ?  Does  he  distribute 
to  the  poor  ?  Alas  !  these  interests  have  no  place 
in  his  breast. 

What  is  there  in  all  the  pomp  of  the  world,  the 
enjoyments  of  luxury,  the  gratification  of  passion, 
comparable  to  the  tranquil  delight  of  a  good  con- 
science. 

To  lie  down  on  the  pillow,  after  a  day  spent  in 
temperance,  in  beneficence,  and  in  piety,  how 
sweet  is  it ! 

We  wait  till  to-morrow  to  be  happy  :  alas ! 
why  not  to-day  ?  Shall  we  be  yeunger  ?  Are  we 
sure  we  shall  be  healthier  ?  Will  our  passions  be- 
come feebler,  and  our  love  of  the  world  less  ? 

What  shadow  can  be  more  vain  than  the  life  of  a 
great  part  of  mankind  ?  Of  all  that  eager  and  bust- 
ling crowd  which  we  behold  on  earth,  how  few 
discover  the  path  of  true  happiness  !  how  few  can 
we  find  whose  activity  has  not  been  misemployed, 


100  KEY.  f  Promiscuous. 

and  whose  course  terminates  not  in  confessions  of 
disappointment ! 

On  the  one  hand,  are  the  divine  approbation, 
and  immortal  honour;  on  the  other,  (remember 
and  beware,)  are  the  stings  of  conscience,  and  end- 
less infamy. 

As,  in  riper  years,  all  unseasonable  returns  to 
the  levity  of  youth  ought  to  be  avoided,  (an  admo- 
nition which  equally  belongs  to  both  sexes,)  still 
more  are  we  to  guard  against  those  intemperate 
indulgences  of  pleasure,  to  which  the  young  are 
unhappily  prone. 

The  bliss  of  man,  (could  pride  that  blessing  find,) 
Is  not  to  act  or  think  beyond  mankind. 

Or  why  so  long  (in  life  if  long  can  be) 
Lent  Heav'n  a  parent  to  the  poor  and  me  ? 


CHAP.  VI. 

Corrections  of  the  promiscuous  instances  of  de- 
fective Punctuation. 

SECTION  1. 

Exercises,  p.  128. 

WHEN  Socrates  was  asked,  what  man  approach- 
ed the  nearest  to  perfect  happiness,  he  answered  : 
<:  That  man  who  has  the  fewest  w7ant)S." 

She  who  studies  her  glass,  neglects  her  heart. 

Between  passion  and  lying,  there  is  not  a  fin- 
ger's breadth. 

The  freer  we  feel  ourselves  in  the  presence  of 
others,  the  more  free  are  they  :  he  who  is  free, 
makes  free. 

Addison  has  remarked,  with  equal  piety  and 
truth,  "  that  the  creation  is  a  perpetual  feast  to  the 
mind  of  a  good  man." 


Promiscuous,  j    PUNCTUATION.  101 

He  who  shuts  out  all  evasion  when  he  promises, 
loves  truth. 

The  laurels  of  the  warrior  are  dyed  in  blood  ; 
and  bedewed  with  the  tears  pj?  jthe;  widow  aind;  the 
orphan,  

Between  fame  and  true^itfriouxy  i1  djstiflctiioh  (s 
to  be  made.  The  former  is  a  loud  and  noisy  ap- 
plause ;  the  latter,  a  more  silent  and  internal  "hom- 
age. Fame  floats  on  the  breath  of  the  multitude  : 
honour  rests  on  the  judgment  of  the  thinking* 
Fame  may  give  praise,  while  it  withholds  esteem : 
true  honour  implies  esteem  mingled  with  respect. 
The  one  regards  particular  distinguished  talents  : 
the  other  looks  up  to  the  whole  character. 

There  is  a  certain  species  of  religion,  (if  we  can 
give  it  that  name,)  which  is  placed  wholly  in  spec- 
ulation and  belief;  in  the  regularity  of  external 
homage ;  or  in  fiery  zeal  about  contested  opinions. 

Xenophanes,  who  was  reproached  with  being 
timorous,  because  he  would  not  venture  his  money 
in  a  game  at  dice,  made  this  manly  and  sensible 
reply  :  "  I  confess  I  am  exceedingly  timorous  ;  for 
I  dare  not  commit  an  evil  action. " 

He  loves  nobly,  (I  speak  of  friendship,)  who  is 
not  jealous,  when  he  has  partners  of  love. 

Our  happiness  consists  in  the  pursuit,  much 
more  than  in  the  uttainment,  of  any  temporal  good* 

Let  me  repeat  it ; — he  only  is  great  who  has 
the  habits  of  greatness. 

Prosopopoeia,  or  personification,  is  a  rhetorical 
figure,  by  which  we  attribute  life  and  action  to  in- 
animate objects  :  as,  "  The  ground  thirsts  for 
rain 5"  "  The  earth  smiles  with  plenty. " 

The  proper  and  rational  conduct  of  men,  with 
regard  to  futurity,  is  regulated  by  two  considera- 
tions :  first,  that  much  of  what  it  contains,  must  re- 
main to  us  absolutely  unknown ;  next;  that  there 

•K  2 


102  KEY.  f Promiscuous. 

are  also  some  events  in  it  which  may  be  certainly 
known  and  foreseen. 

The  gardens  of  the  world  produce  only  decidu- 
ous flowers.  •  Fdr&fiftial  ones  must  be  sought  in 
the  delightful  regions  above.  Roses  without 
tlterhs 'arts  the  growth  of  paradise  alone. 

How  many  rules  and  maxims  of  life  might  be 
spared,  could  we  fix  a  principle  of  virtue  within  ; 
and  inscribe  the  living  sentiment  of  the  love  of 
God  in  the  affections  !  He  who  loves  righteous- 
ness, is  master  of  all  the  distinctions  in  morality. 

He  who,  from  the  benignity  of  his  nature,  erect- 
ed this  world  for  the  abode  of  men ;  he  who  fur- 
nished it  so  richly  for  our  accommodation,  and 
stored  it  with  so  much  beauty  for  our  entertain- 
ment ;  he  who,  since  first  we  entered  into  life,  hath 
followed  us  with  such  a  variety  of  mercies  :  this 
amiable  and  beneficent  Being,  surely  can  have  no 
pleasure  in  our  disappointment  and  distress.  He 
knows  our  frame  ;  he  remembers  we  are  dust ;  and 
looks  to  frail  man,  wre  are  assured,  with  such  pity 
as  a  father  beareth  to  his  children. 

One  of  the  first  lessons,  both  of  religion  and  of 
wisdom,  is,  to  moderate  our  expectations  and 
hopes  ;  and  not  to  set  forth  on  the  voyage  of  life, 
like  men  who  expect  to  be  always  carried  forward 
with  a  favourable  gale.  Let  us  be  satisfied  if  the 
path  wre  tread  be  easy  and  smooth,  though  it  be  not 
strewed  with  flowers. 

Providence  never  intended,  that  the  art  of  living 
happily  in  this  world  should  depend  on  that  deep 
penetration,  that  acute  sagacity,  and  those  re- 
finements of  thought,  which  few  possess.  It  has 
dealt  more  graciously  with  us  ;  and  made  happi- 
ness depend  on  uprightness  of  intention,  much 
more  than  on  extent  of  capacity. 

Most  of  our  passions  flatter  us  in  their  rise.  But 
their  beginnings  are  treacherous  ;  their  growth  is 


Promiscuous.  J     PUNCTUATION,  103 

imperceptible  ;  and  the  evils  which  they  carry  in 
their  train,  lie  concealed,  until  their  dominion  is 
established.  What  Solomon  sqys  of  one  of  them, 
holds  true  of  them  all,  "  that  .ttteir,  beginning  is  as 
when  one  letteth  out  water.;"  It  issues  from  a  small 
chink,  which  once  might  have  b^en  ^ksify  atpppe.s!.; 
but  being  neglected,  it  is  soon  widened  by  the 
stream ;  till  the  bank  is  at  last  totally  thrown  down, 
and  the  flood  is  at  liberty  to  deluge  the  whole  plain. 

Prosperity  debilitates,  instead  of  strengthening 
the  mind.  Its  most  common  effect  is,  to  create  aa 
extreme  sensibility  to  the  slightest  wound.  It  fo- 
ments impatient  desires  ;  and  raises  expectations 
which  no  success  can  satisfy.  It  fosters  a  false  del- 
icacy,  which  sickens  in  the  midst  of  indulgence. 
By  repeated  gratification,  it  blunts  the  feelings  of 
men  to  what  is  pleasing ;  and  leaves  them  unhap- 
pily acute  to  whatever  is  uneasy.  Hence,  the  gale 
which  another  wrould  scarcely  feel,  is,  to  the  pros- 
perous, a  rude  tempest.  Hence,  the  rose-leaf 
doubled  below  them  on  the  coach,  as  it  is  told  of 
the  effeminate  Sybarite,  breaks  their  rest.  Hence, 
the  disrespect  shown  by  Mordecai,  preyed  with 
such  violence  on  the  heart  of  Haman. 

Anxiety  is  the  poison  of  human  life.  It  is  the 
parent  of  many  sins,  and  of  more  miseries.  In  a 
world  where  every  thing  is  so  doubtful  ;  wrhere 
we  may  succeed  in  our  wish,  and  be  miserable  ; 
where  we  may  be  disappointed,  and  be  blessed  in 
the  disappointment ;  what  mean  this  restless  stir 
and  commotion  of  mind  ?  Can  our  solicitude  alter 
the  course,  or  unravel  the  intricacy,  of  human 
events?  Can  our  curiosity  pierce  through  the 
cloud,  which  the  Supreme  Being  hath  made  im- 
penetrable to  mortal  eye  ? 

No  situation  is  so  remote,  and  no  station  so  un- 
favourable, as  to  preclude  access  to  the  happiness 
of  a  future  state.  A  road  is  opened  by  the  Divine 


KEY.  f  Promiscuous. 

Spirit  to  those  blissful  habitations,  from  all  cor- 
ners of  the  earth,  and  from  all  conditions  of  human 
life  ;  from  the  peopled  city,  and  from  the  solitary 
desert^  from  t|ie  cottages  of  the  poor,  and  from 
the  palaces  of  lyings  ;  from  the  dwellings  of  ignor - 
a&ce^d /dwpliciiy,  and  from  the  regions  of  sci- 
enfce  and  improvement. 

The  scenes  which  present  themselves,  at  our  en- 
tering upon  the  world,  are  commonly  flattering. 
Whatever  they  be  in  themselves,  the  lively  spirits 
of  the  young  gild  every  opening  prospect.  The 
field  of  hope  appears  to  stretch  wide  before  them. 
Pleasure  seems  to  put  forth  its  blossoms  on  every 
side.  Impelled  by  desire,  forward  they  rush  with 
inconsiderate  ardour  ;  prompt  to  decide,  and  to 
choose  ;  averse  to  hesitate,  or  to  inquire ;  credu- 
lous, because  untaught  by  experience ;  rash,  be- 
cause unacquainted  with  danger ;  headstrong,  be- 
cause  unsubdued  by  disappointment.  Hence  arise 
the  perils  to  which  they  are  exposed ;  and  which 
too  often,  from  want  of  attention  to  faithful  admo- 
nition, precipitate  them  into  ruin  irretrievable. 

By  the  unhappy  excesses  of  irregular  pleasure 
in  youth,  how  many  amiable  dispositions  are  cor- 
rupted or  destroyed  !  How  many  rising  capacities 
stud  powers  are  suppressed  !  How  many  flattering 
hopes  of  parents  and  friends  are  totally  extinguish- 
ed !  Who  but  must  drop  a  tear  over  human  nature, 
when  he  beholds  that  morning  which  arose  so 
bright,  overcast  with  such  untimely  darkness;  that 
sweetness  of  temper  W'hich  once  engaged  many 
hearts,  that  modesty  which  was  so  prepossessing, 
those  abilities  which  promised  extensive  useful- 
ness, ull  sacrificed  at  the  shrine  of  low  sensuality  : 
and  one  who  was  formed  for  passing  through  life, 
in  the  midst  of  public  esteem,  cut  off  by  his  vices 
at  the  beginning  of  his  course ;  or  sunk,  for  the 
whole  of  it^  into  insignificance  and  contempt? 


Promiscuous. )    PUNCTUATION.  105 

These,  O  sinful  Pleasure  !  are  thy  trophies.  It  is 
thus  that,  co-operating  with  the  foe  of  God  and 
man,  thou  degradest  human  honour,  and  blastest 
the  opening  prospects  of  human  felicity* 

„ 

SECTION   %. 

EXAMPLES  IN  POETRY, 

Exercises,  p.  133. 

Where  thy  true  treasure  ?  Gold  says,   "  Not  in  me  a^ 
And  "  Not  in  me,"  the  Di'mond.    'Gold  is  poor. 

The  scenes  of  6us*ness  tell  us — what  are  men  5 
The  scenes  of  pleasure— what  is  all  beside. 

Wo  then  apart,  (if  wo  apart  can  be 

From  mortal  man,)  and  fortune  at  our  nod, 

The  gay,  rich,  £reat,  triumphant,  and  august, 

What  are  they  ?  The  most  happy  (strange  to  say  ! ) 

Convince  me  most  of  human  misery. 

All  this  dread  order  break — for  whom  ?  for  thee  ? 

Vile  worm  ! — 0  madness !  pride  !  impiety  ! 

Man*  like  the  generous  vine*  sunnnrfprl  lives ; 

The  strength  he  gains,  is  from  th3  embrace  he  gives, 

Know,  Nature's  children  all  divide  her  care: 
The  fur  that  warms  a  monarch,  warm'd  a  bear. 
While  man  exclaims,  "  See  all  things  for  my  use  I" 
"  See  man  for  mine,"  replies  a  pamper  d  goose. 
And  just  as  short  of  reason  he  must  fall, 
Who  thinks  ail  made  for  one,  not  one  for  all. 

IV  Almighty,  from  his  throne,  on  earth  surveys 
Naught  greater  than  an  honest,  humble  heart  $ 
An  humble  heart  his  residence  pronounc'd, 
His  second  seat. 

Bliss  there  is  none,  but  unprecarious  bliss. 
That  is  the  gem  :  sell  all  and  purchase  that. 
Why  go  a  begging  to  contingencies, 
Notgain'd  with  ease,  nor  safely  lov'd,  if  gain'd  ? 
There  is  a  time,  when  toil  must  be  preferred. 
Or  joy,  by  mistim'd  fondness,  is  undone, 
man  of  pleasure  is  a  man  of  pains. 


A  man 


106  KEY.  {Promiscuous. 

Thus  nature  gives  us  (let  it  check  our  pride) 
The  virtue  nearest  to  our  vice  allied. 

See  the  sole  bliss  Heav'n  could  on  all  bestow  : 
Which  who  but  feels  can  taste,  but  thinks  can  know  t 
Yet  poor  with  fortune,  and  with  learning  blind, 
The  bad  must  miss ;  the  good  untaught  will  find* 

Whatever  is,  is  right.' — This  world,  'tis  true, 

Was  made  for  Caesar, — but  for  Titus  too. 

And  which  more  bless'd  ?  who  chained  hi^  country,  say> 

Or  he  whose  virtue  sigh'd  to  lose  a  day  ? 

The  first  sure  symptom  of  a  mind  in  health, 
Is  rest  of  heart/ and  pleasure  felt  at  home* 

True  happiness  resides  in  things  unseen. 
No  smiles  of  fortune  ever  bless  the  bad ; 
Nor  can  her  frowns  rob  innocence  of  joy* 

Oh  the  dark  days  of  vanity !  while  here, 

How  tasteles !  and  how  terrible,  when  gone  ! 

Gone  !  they  ne'er  go  :  when  past,  they  haunt  us  still* 

Father  of  light  and  life !  Thou  good  supreme  ! 
O  teach  me  what  is  good  !  Teach  me  thyself; 
Save  me  from  folly,  vanity,  and  vice, 
From  ev'ry  low  pursuit ;  and  feed  my  soul 
With  knowledge,  conscious  peace,  and  virtue  pure. 
Sacred,  substantial,  never  fading  bliss  ! 

If  I  am  right,  thy  grace  impart. 

Still  in  the  right  to  stay  : 
If  I  am  wrong*  O  teach  my  heart 

To  find  that  better  way* 

Save  me  alike  from  foolish  pride, 

Or  impious  discontent, 
At  aught  thy  wisdom  has  denied, 

Or  aught  thy  goodness  lent. 

O  lost  to  virtue,  lost  to  manly  thought. 
Lost  to  the  noble  sallies  of  the  soul, 
Who  think  it  solitude  to  be  alone ! 
Communion  sweet,  communion  large  and  high, 
Our  reason,  guardian  angel,  and  our  God. 
Then  nearest  these,  when  others  most  remote  j 
And  all,  ere  long,  shall  be  remote,  but  these. 


Promiscuous, )    PUNCTUATION, 

BENEVOLENCE. 

God  loves  from  whole  to  parts ;  but  human  soul 
Must  rise  from  individual  to  the  whole. 
Self-love  but  serves  the  virtuous  mind  to  wake, 
As  the  small  pebble  stirs  the  peaceful  lake  : 
The  centre  mov'd,  a  circle  straight  succeeds  ; 
Another  still,  and  still  another  spreads, 
Friend,  parent,  neighbour,  first  it  will  embrace; 
His  country  next ;  and  next  all  human  race : 
Wide,  and  more  wide  th'  overflowings  of  the  mind^ 
Take  ev'ry  creature  in  of  ev'ry  kind. 
Earth  smiles  around,  with  boundless  bounty  blest  5 
And  Heav'n  beholds  its  image  in  his  breast. 

HAPPINESS. 

Know  then  this  truth,  (enough  for  man  to  know,) 

"  Virtue  alone  is  happiness  below  :" 

The  only  point  where  human  bliss  stands  still, 

And  tastes  the  good  without  the  fall  to  ill ; 

Where  only  merit  constant  pay  receives ; 

Is  blest  in  what  it  takes,  and  what  it  gives, 

The  joy  unequall'd  if  its  end  it  gain  ; 

And  if  it  lose,  attended  with  no  pain  : 

Without  satiety,  tho'  e'er  so  blest; 

And  but  more  reli$h'd  as  the  more  distress'd  : 

The  broadest  mirth  unfeeling  folly  wears, 

Less  pleasing  far  than  virtue's  very  tears. 

Good,  from  each  object,  from  each  place  acquir'd  | 

For  ever  exercis'd,  yet  never  tir'd  ; 

Never  elated  while  one  man's  oppress?d  ; 

Never  dejected  while  another's  bles'd ; 

And  where  no  wants,  no  wishes  can  remain  ; 

Since  but  to  wish  more  virtue,  is  to  gain. 

GRATITUDE. 

When  all  thy  mercies,  O  my  God ! 

My  rising  soul  surveys, 
Transported  with  the  view,  I'm  lost 

In  wonder,  love,  and  praise. 

O  how  shall  words  with  equal  warmth,, 

The  gratitude  declare, 
That  glows  within  my  ravish'd  heart  ? 

But  thou  canst  read  it  there. 


108  KEY.  f  Promiscuous, 

Thy  providence  my  life  sustained, 

And  all  my  wants  redress'd, 
When  in  the  silent  womb  I  lay. 

And  hung  upon  the  breast. 

To  all  my  weak  complaints  and  cries, 

Thy  mercy  lent  an  ear, 
Ere  yet  my  feeble  thoughts  had  learn'd 

To  form  themselves  in  pray'r. 

Unnumbered  comforts  to  my  soul. 

Thy  tender  care  bestow'd, 
Before  my  infant  heart  conceiv'd 

From  whom  those  comforts  flow'd. 

When,  in  th^  slipp'ry  paths  of  youth, 

With  heedless  steps,  I  ran, 
Thine  arm,  unseen,  convey 'd  me  safe, 

And  led  me  up  to  man, 

Through  hidden  dangers,  toils,  and  death^ 

It  gontly  el  ear 'd  my  way  ; 
And  through  the  pleasing  snares  of  vice, 

More  to  be  fear'd  than  they. 

When  worn  with  sickness,  oft  hast  thou, 

With  health  renewal  my  face  5 
And  when  in  sin  and  sorrow  sunk, 

Reviv'd  my  soul  with  grace. 

Thy  bounteous  hand,  with  worldly  blisss 

Has  made  my  cup  run  o'er  ; 
And,  in  a  kind  and  faithful  friend, 

Has  doubled  all  my  store. 

Ten  thousand  thousand  precious  gifts 

My  daily  thanks  employ ; 
Nor  is  the  least,  a  cheerful  heart, 

That  tastes  those  gifts  with  joy. 
Through  ev'ry  period  of  my  life, 

Thy  goodness  I'll  pursue  : 
And,  after  death,  in  distant  worlds, 

The  gloripus  theme  renew. 
When  nature  fails,  and  day  and  night 

Divide  thy  works  to  more, 
My  ever  grateful  heart,  O  Lord ! 

Thy  mercy  shall  adore. 

Through  all  eternity  to  thee 

A  joyful  song  I'll  raise  ; 
For  6 !  eternity's  too  short 

To  utter  ail  thy  praise. 


Promiscuous. J      PUNCTUATION  109 

THE  VOYAGE  OF  LIFE. 

Self-flatter'd,unexperienc'd,  high  in  hope, 
When  young,  with  sanguine  cheer,  and  streamers  gay, 
We  cut  our  cable,  launch  into  the  world, 
And  fondly  dream  each  wind  and  star  our  friend, 
All  in  some  darling  enterprise  embark'd. 
But  where  is  he  can  fathom  its  event  ? 
Amid  a  multitude  of  artless  hands, 
(Ruin's  sure  perquisite,  her  lawful  prize,) 
%ome  steer  aright :  but  the  black  blast  blo>vs  hard, 
And  puffs  them  wide  of  hope.     With  hearts  of  proof, 
Full  against  wind  and  tide,  some  win  their  way ; 
And  when  strong  effort  has  deserv'd  the  port, 
And  tugg'd  it  into  view,  'tis  won !  'tis  lost ! 
Though  strong  their  oar,  still  stronger  is  their  fate : 
They  strike  ;  and  while  they  triumph,  they  expire, 
In  stress  of  weather,  most,  some  sink  outright. 
O'er  them,  and  o'er  their  names,  the  billows  close, 
To  morrow  knows  not  they  were  ever  born. 
Others  a  short  memorial  leave  behind, 
Like  a  flag  floating,  when  the  bark's  ingulf  'd, 
It  floats  a  moment,  and  is  seen  no  more  i 
One  Caesar  lives ;  a  thousand  are  forgot, 
How  few,  favour'd  by  ev'ry  element, 
With  swelling  sails  make  good  the  promised  port, 
With  all  their  wishes  freighted  !  Yet  ev'n  these. 
Freighted  with  all  their  wishes,  soon  complain. 
Free  frgm  misfortune,  not  from  nature  free, 
They  still  are  men ;  and  when  is  man  secure  ? 
As  fatal  time  as  storm.    The  rush  of  years 
Beats  down  their  strength ;  their  numberless  escapes 
In  ruin  end  :  and,  now,  their  proud  success 
But  plants  new  terrors  on  the  victor's  brow. 
What  pain,  to  quit  the  world  just  made  their  own  ! 
Their  nests  so  deeply  dpwn'd,  and  built  so  high  I—- 
Too low  they  build,  who  build  beneath  the  stars. 

L 


PART  V. 

PERSPICUITY  AND  ACCURACY. 

First,  with  respect  to  single  words  and  ph 

CHAP.  I, 

Corrections  of  the  errors  that  relate  to  Purity, 

Grammar,  p.  274,    Exercises,  p.  139. 

WE  should  be  daily  employed  in  doing  good, 

I  am  wearied  with  seeing  so  perverse  a  dispo- 
sition. 

I  know  not  who  has  done  this  thing, 

He  is  in  no  wise  thy  inferior ;  mid,  in  this  in- 
stance, is  not  at  all  to  blame. 

The  assistance  was  welcome,  and  seasonally 
afforded. 

For  want  of  employment,  he  wandered  idly 
about  the  fields. 

We  ought  to  live  soberly,  righteously,  and 
piously  in  the  world. 

He  was  long  indisposed,  and  at  length  died  of 
melancholy, 

That  word  follows  the  general  rule,  and  takes 
the  penultimate  accent,  * 

He  was  an  extraordinary  genius,  and  attracted 
much  attention. 

The  haughtiness  of  Florio  was  very  ungrace- 
ful, ai}d  disgusted  both  his  friends  and  strangers. 


Purity.)  PERSPICUITY,  &c.  Ill 

He  charged  me  with  want  of  resolution,  but  in 
this  censure  he  was  greatly  mistaken* 

They  have  manifested  great  candour  in  all  the 
transaction. 

The  conformity  of  the  thought  to  truth  and  na- 
ture greatly  recommend  it* 

The  importance,  as  well  as  the  authenticity  of 
the  books,  has  been  clearly  displayed* 

It  is  difficult  to  discover  the  spirit  and  design  of 
some  laws. 

The  disposition  which  he  exhibited,  was  both 
unnatural  and  uncomfortable. 

His  natural  severity  rendered  him  a  very  un- 
popular speaker. 

The  inquietude  of  his  mind,  made  his  station, 
and  wealth  far  from  being  enviable* 

I  received  the  gift  with  pleasure,  but  I  shall 
now  more  gladly  resign  it.  Or — with  greater 
pleasure  resign  it. 

These  are  things  of  the  highest  importance  to 
the  growing  age* 

I  am  grieved  with  the  view  of  so  many  blank 
leaves,  in  the  book  of  my  life. 

I  repent  that  I  have  so  long  walked  in  the  paths 
of  folly. 

I  think  that  I  am  not  mistaken  in  an  opinion^ 
which  I  have  so  well  considered. 

They  thought  it  an  important  subject,  and  the 
question  was  strenuously  debated  on  both  sides. 

Thy  speech  betrays  thee  5  for  thou  art  a  Gali- 
lean. 

Let  us  not  give  too  hasty  credit  to  stories  which 
may  injure  our  neighbour  :  perhaps  they  are  the 
offspring  of  calumny,  or  misapprehension. 

The  gardens  were  void  of  simplicity  and  ele- 
gance ;  and  exhibited  much  that  was  glaring  and 
whimsical. 


KEY.  (Propriety. 

CHAP.  II. 

Corrections  of  the  errors  relating  to  Propriety. 

Grammar,  p.  £76    Exercises,  p.  141. 

SECTION    1. 

/  would  as  readily  do  it  myself,  as  persuade 
another  to  do  it. 

Of  the  justness  of  his  measures  he  convinced  his 
opponent^  by  the  force  of  argument. 

He  is  not,  in  any  degree,  better  than  those  whom 
he  so  liberally  condemns. 

He  insists  upon  security,  and  will  not  liberate 
him  till  it  be  obtained. 

The  meaning  of  the  phrase,  as  "I  understand  it, 
is  very  different  from  the  common  acceptation. 

The  favourable  moment  should  be  embraced ; 
for  he  does  not  continue  long  in  one  mind. 

He  exposed  himself  so  much  amongst  the  peo- 
ple, that  he  was  once  or  twice  in  danger  of  having 
his  head  broken. 

He  was  very  dexterous  in  penetrating  the  views 
and  designs  of  others. 

If  a  little  care  were  bestowed  upon  his  education, 
lie  might  be  very  useful  amongst  his  neighbours. 

He  might  have  perceived,  by  a  transient  view, 
the  difficulties  to  which  his  conduct  exposed  him. 

If  I  should  have  a  little  leisure  to-morrow,  I  in- 
tend to  pay  them  a  short  visit. 

This  performance  is  of  the  same  value  as  the 
other. 

The  scene  was  new,  and  he  was  seized  with 
wonder  at  all  he  sawr. 

SECTION   2« 

Grammar,  p.  276.    Exercises,  p.  142. 
Let  us  consider  the  works  of  nature  and  of  art, 
with  proper  attention. 


Propriety. )       PERSPICUITY,  &c.  113 

He  is  engaged  in  a  treatise  on  the  interests  of 
the  soul  and  of  the  body. 

Some  productions  of  nature  rise  or  sink  in  val- 
ue, according  as  they  more  or  less  resemble  those 
of  art. 

The  Latin  tongue  was  never  spoken,  in  its  puri- 
ty, in  this  island. 

*  For  some  centuries,  there  was  a  constant  inter- 
course between  France  and  England,  by  reason  of 
the  dominions  which  we  possessed  there,  and  the 
conquests  which  we  made.  Or — occasioned  by  the 
dominions,  &c. 

He  is  impressed  with  a  true  sense  of  the  impor- 
tance of  that  function,  when  chosen  from  a  regard 
to  the  interests  of  piety  and  virtue. 

The  wise  and  the  foolish,  the  virtuous  and  the 
vile,  the  learned  and  the  ignorant,  the  temperate 
and  the  profligate,  must  often,  like  the  wheat  and 
the  tares,  be  blended  together. 

SECTION  3. 
Grammar,  p.  267.     Exercises,  p.  142. 

An  eloquent  speaker  may  give  more  numerous, 
but  cannot  give  more  convincing  arguments,  than 
this  plain  man  offered.  Or — may  give  more  but 
cannot  give  stronger,  &c. 

These  persons  possessed  very  moderate  intel- 
lects, even  before  they  had  impaired  them  by  the 
extravagance  of  passion. 

True  wit  is  nature  dressed  to  advantage  ;  but 
some  works  have  more  ornament  than  does  them 
good. 

The  sharks,  that  prey  upon  the  inadvertency  of 
young  heirs,  are  more  pardonable  than  those,  who 
trespass  upon  the  good  opinion  of  persons  that 
treat  them  with  great  confidence  and  respect. 

Honour  teaches  us  properly  to  respect  ourselves, 
and  to  violate  no  right  or  privilege  of  our 

L  2 


114  KEY.  f Propriety, 

neighbour:  it  leads  us  to  support  the  feeble,  to  relieve 
the  distressed,  and  to  scorn  to  be  governed  by  de- 
grading and  injurious  passions.     It  must,  there 
fore,  be  a  false  and  mistaken  honour,  that  prompts 
the  destroyer  to  take  the  life  of  his  friend. 

He  will  always  be  with  you,  to  support  and  com- 
fort  you,  and  in  some  measure  to  prosper  your  la- 
bours ;  and  he  will  also  be  with  all  his  faithful 
ministers,  who  shall  succeed  you  in  his  service. 

SECTION  4. 

Grammar,  p.  £77.     Exercises,  p.  143. 

MOST  of  our  sailors  were  asleep  in  their  apart- 
ments, when  a  heavy  wave  broke  over  the  ship, 
and  swept  away  one  of  our  boats,  and  the  box 
which  contained  -aur  compasses,  &c.  Our  cabin 
windows  were  secured,  or  the  vessel  would  have 
been  filled.  The  main  mast  was  so  damaged,  that 
we  were  obliged  to  strengthen  it,  and  to  proceed 
for  Lisbon. 

The  book  is  very  neatly  printed  :  the  distances 
between  the  lines  are  ample  and  regular  ;  and  the 
lines  themselves,  on  the  opposite  sides  of  each  leaf, 
exactly  correspond  to  one  another. 

SECTION  5. 

Grammar,  p.  £77.     Exercises,  p.  144. 

WHEN  our  friendship  is  considered,  how  is  it 
possible  that  I  should  not  grieve  for  having  lost 
such  a  friend? 

The  hen  being  in  hernest,  was  killed  and  eaten 
there  by  the  eagle.  Or — The  eagle  killed  the 
hen,  flew  to  her  nest  in  the  tree,  and  eat  her  there. 

It  may  be  justly  said,  that  there  are  no  laics 
preferable  to  those  of  England. 

They  who  have  pretended  to  polish  and  refine 
the  English  language,  have  been  the  chief  agents, 
in  multiplying  its  abuses  and  absurdities.  Or — • 
The  chief  thing,  which  they  who  have  pretended 


Propriety, )       PERSPICUITY,  &c.  115 

to  polish  and  refine  the  English  language,  have 
done  is,  to  multiply  its  abuses  and  absurdities. 

The  English  adventurers,  degenerating  from 
the  customs  of  their  own  nation,  were  gradually 
assimilated  to  the  natives,  instead  of  reclaiming 
them  from  their  uncultivated  manners,. 

It  has  been  said,  that  Jesuits  can  not  only  equiv- 
ocate. Or — Jesuits  are  not  the  only  persons  who 
can  equivocate. 

We  must  not  think  that  these  people,  when  in- 
jured, have  no  right  at  all  to  our  protection.  Or — 
have  less  right  than  others  to  our  protection. 

Solomon  the  son  of  David,  and  the  builder  of 
the  temple  of  Jerusalem,  was  the  richest  monarch 
that  reigned  over  the  Jewish  people* 

Solomon  whose  father  David  was  persecuted 
fry  Saul,  was  the  richest  monarch  of  the  Jews. 

It  is  certain  that  all  the  words  which  are  signs 
of  complex  ideas,  may  furnish  matter  of  mistake 
and  caviL  Or — all  those  words,  &c. 

Lisias,  speaking  of  his  friends,  promised  to  his 
father,  never  to  abandon  them.  Or — Lisias  speak- 
ing of  his  father's  friends,  promised  to  his 
father,  never  to  abandon  them. 

The  Divine  Being,  ever  liberal  and  faithful, 
heapeth  favours  on  his  servants.  Or — The  Di~ 
vine  Being  heapeih  favours  on  his  liberal  and 
faithful  servants. 

Every  well-instructed  scribe,  is  like  ahouseholdr 
er,  who  bringeth  out  of  his  treasure  new  things  &  old. 

He  was  willing  to  spend  one  or  two  hundred, 
pounds,  rather  than  be  enslaved. 

Dryden,  in  the  following  words,  makes  a  very 
handsome  observation,  on  Ovid's  writing  a  letter 
from  Dido  to  jflEneas* 

Imprudent  associations  disqualify  us  for  in- 
structing  or  reproving  others.  Or — Disqualify  us 
for  receiving  instruction  or  reproof  from  others. 


116  KEY.  ( Propriety. 

SECTION  6. 
Grammar,  p.  278.     Exercises,  p.  145. 

I  SELDOM  see  a  noble  building,  or  any  great 
piece  of  magnificence  and  pomp,  but  I  think,  how 
little  is  all  this  to  satisfy  the  ambition  of  an  im- 
mortal soul ! 

A  poet,  speaking  of  the  universal  deluge,  says  ; 

Yet  when  that  flood  in  its  own  depth  was  drown'n, 
It  left  behind  it  false  and  slipp'ry  ground. 

When  the  waters  of  tlie  deluge  Jiad  subsided, 
they  left,  &c. 

The  author  of  the  Spectator  says,  that  a  man  is 
not  qualified  for  a  bust,  who  has  not  a  good  deal 
of  wit  and  vivacity. 

And  Bezaleel  made  the  laver  of  brass,  and  the 
foot  of  it  of  brass,  of  the  mirrors  used  by  the  wo- 
men. 

And.  in  the  lower  deep,  another  deep 
Still  threatening  to  devour  me,  opens  wide. 

SECTION   7- 
Grammar,  p.  281.    Exercises,  p.  145. 

No  fewer  than  two  hundred  schollars  have 
been  educated  in  that  school. 

The  business,  however  laudable  the  attempt, 
was  found  to  be  impracticable. 

He  is  our  common  benefactor,  and  deserves  our 
respect  and  obedience. 

Vivacity  is  often  promoted,  by  presenting  a 
sensible  objectto  the  mind,  instead  of  an  intellect- 
ual one. 

They  broke  down  the  banks,  and  the  country 
was  soon  overflowed. 

The  garment  was  decently  formed,  and  seiced 
very  neatly. 

The  house  is  a  cold  one,  for  it  has  a  northern 
aspect* 


Propriety.}          PERSPICUITY.  117 

The  proposal,  for  each  of  us  to  relinquish  same- 
thing,  was  complied  with,  and  produced  a  cordial 
reconciliation* 

Though  learn'd,  well  bred  $  and  tho'  well  bred  sincere  $ 
Modestly  bold,  and  humanely  severe. 

A  fop  is  a  ridiculous  character,  in  every  qiie's 
view  but  his  own. 

An  action  that  excites  laughter,  without  any 
mixture  of  contempt,  maybe  called  a  risible  action. 

It  is  difficult  for  him  to  speak  three  sentences 
successively. 

By  this  expression,  I  do  not  mean  what  some 
persons  annex  to  it. 

The  neglect  of  timely  precaution  was  the  cause 
of  this  great  loss. 

All  the  sophistry  which  has  been  employed, 
cannot  obscure  so  plain  a  truth* 

Disputing  should  always  be  so  managed,  as  to 
remind  us,  that  the  only  end  of  it  is  truth. 

My  friend  was  so  ill  that  he  could  not  sit  up  at 
all,  but  was  obliged  to  lie  continually  in  bed. 

A  certain  prince,  it  is  said,  when  he  invaded 
the  Egyptians,  placed,  in  the  front  of  his  army, 
a  number  of  cats  and  other  animals,  which  were 
worshipped  by  those  people.  A  reverence  for 
these  creatures,  made  the  Egyptians  lay  down 
their  arms,  and  become  an  easy  conquest. 

The  presence  of  the  Deity,  and  the  interest 
which  so  august  a  Being  is  supposed  to  take  in 
eur  concerns,  is  a  source  of  consolation. 

And  when  they  had  kindled  a  fire  in  the  midst 
of  the  hall,  and  had  sat  down  together,  Peter  sat 
down  among  them. 

By  the  slavish  disposition  of  the  senate  and 
people  of  Rome,  under  the  emperors,  the  wit  and 
eloquence  of  the  age  were  wholly  turned  towards 
penegyric.  Or — wholly  employed  in  penegyric. 


118  KEY.  {Propriety. 

The  refreshment  came  in  seasonably,  before 
they  had  laid  down  to  rest* 

We  speak  what  we  do  know,  and  testify  that 
which  we  have  seen. 

They  shall  fly  as  the  eagle  that  hasteth  to  eat. 

The  wicked  flee  when  no  man  pursueth  :  but 
the  righteous  are  bold  as  a  lion* 

A  Creature  of  a  more  exalted  kind. 

Was  wanted  yet,  and  then  was  man  designed. 

He  died  by  violence  5  for  he  was  killed  with  a 
sword. 

He  had  scarcely  taken  the  medicine,  when  he 
began  to  feel  himself  relieved. 

No  place  nor  any  object  appears  to  him  void  of 
beauty. 

When  we  fall  into  conversation  with  any  person, 
the  first  thing  we  should  consider,  is,  the  inten- 
tion of  it. 

Galileo  invented  the  telescope  ;  Hervey  discov- 
ered the  circulation  of  the  blood. 

Philip  found  difficulty  in  managing  the  Athe- 
nians, from  the  nature  of  their  dispositions ;  but 
the  eloquence  of  Demosthenes  was  the  greatest 
obstacle  to  his  designs. 

A  hermit  is  austere  in  his  life ;  a  judge,  rigo- 
rous in  his  sentences. 

A  candid  man  acknowledges  his  mistake,  and 
19  forgiven ;  a  patriot  avows  his  opposition  to  a 
bad  minister,  and  is  applauded. 

We  have  increased  our  family  and  expenses  ; 
and  enlarged  our  garden  and  fruit  orchard. 

By  proper  reflection,  we  may  be  taught  to  cor- 
rect what  is  erroneous,  and  to  supply  what  is  de- 
fective. 

The  good  man  is  not  overcome  by  disappoint- 
ment when  that  which  is  mortal  dies  ;  when  that 
which  is  mutable,  begins  to  change;  and  when 
that  which  he  knew  to  be  transient  passes  away, 


Precision.^       PERSPICUITY,  &QO  119 

CHAR  in. 

Corrections  of  the  errors  which  respect  Precision, 
Grammar,  p.  282.    Exercises,  p.  148. 

THIS  great  politician  desisted  from  his  de- 
signs, when  he  fou^d  them  impracticable. 

He  was  of  so  high  and  independent  a  spirit, 
that  he  abhorred  being  in  debt. 

Though  raised  to  an  exalte4  station,  she  was  a 
pattern  of  piety  and  virtue. 

The  human  body  may  be  divided  into  the  head, 
the  trunk,  and  the  limbs. 

His  end  soon  approached  ;  and  he  died  with 
great  fortitude. 

He  was  a  man  of  so  much  pride,  that  he  des- 
pised the  sentiments  of  others. 

Poverty  induces  dependence ;  and  dependence 
increases  corruption. 

This  man,  on  all  occasions,  treated  his  inferiors 
with  great  disdain. 

There  can  be  no  order  in  the  life  of  that  m^n, 
who  does  not  allot  a  due  share  of  his  tin^e,  to  ^re- 
tirement and  reflection. 

Such  equivocal  expressions,  mark  an  intention 
to  deceive, 

His  cheerful,  happy  temper,  keeps  up  a  kind 
of  daylight  in  his  mind,  and  fills  it  with  a  steady 
perpetual  serenity. 


130  KEY.  {Clearness. 

Secondly,  Perspicuity  and  accuracy,  with  res- 
pect  to  the  construction  of  Sentences. 


CHAP.  I. 

Corrections  of  the  errors  which  relate  to  the 
Clearness  of  a  Sentence. 

Grammar,  p.  287.    Exercises,  p.  150, 
SECTION   1. 

HENCE  appears  the  impossibility  that  an  un- 
dertaking so  managed,  should  prove  successful. 

May  we  not  here  say  with  the  poet,  that  "  vir- 
tue is  its  own  reward  ?" 

Had  he  died  before,  would  not  this  art  have 
been  then  wholly  unknown  ? 

Not  to  exasperate  him,  I  spoke  only  a  very  few 
words. 

The  works  of  art  receive  a  great  advantage, 
from  the  resemblance  which  they  have  to  those  of 
nature  ;  because  here  not  only  the  similitude  is 
pleasant,  but  the  pattern  is  perfect. 

It  may  be  proper  to  give  some  account  of  those 
practices,  anciently  used  on  such  occasions,  and 
discontinued  only  through  the  neglect  and  degen- 
eracy of  later  times. 

Sixtus  the  fourth  was,  if  I  mistake  not,  a  great 
collector,  at  least  of  books. 

If  Louis  XIV.  was  not  the  greatest  king,  he  was 
at  least  the  best  actor  of  majesty,  that  ever  filled  a 
throne. 

These  forms  of  conversation,  multiplied,  by 
fegrees,  and  grew  troublesome* 


Clearness. )       PERSPICUITY,  &c.  121 

Nor  ctees  this  false  modesty  expose  us  to  suck 
actions  only  as  are  indiscreet,  but  very  often  to 
such  as  are  highly  criminal. 

By  greatness,  I  do  not  mean  the  bulk  of  any^ 
single  object  only,  but  the  largeness  of  a  whole 
view.  Or — I  mean  not  only  the  bulk  of  any  sin- 
gle object,  but  ,&c. 

I  w&s  formerly  engaged  in  that  business,  but  I 
shall  never  be  concerned  in  it  again. 

We  frequently  Ao  those  things,  which  we  after- 
wards  repent  of. 

By  often  doing  the  same  thing,  it  becomes  ha- 
bitual. 

Most  nations,  even  the  Jews  not  excepted,  were 
prone  to  idolatry. 

Raised  to  greatness  without  merit,  he  employed 
his  power  solely  for  the  gratification  of  his  passions, 

SECTION  §. 

Grammar*  p,  288.     Exercises,  p.  151. 
THE  embarrassments  of  the  artificers,  rendered 
the  progress  of  the  work  very  slow. 

He  found  the  place  replete  with  wonders,  with 
the  contemplation  of  which  he  proposed  to  solace 
himself,  if  he  should  never  be  able  to  accomplish 
his  flight. 

They  are  now  engaged  in  a  study,  the  useful- 
ness of  which  they  have  long  wished  to  know. 

This  was  an  undertaking,  which,  in  the  execu- 
tion, proved  as  impracticable,  as  every  other  of 
their  pernicious,  yet  abortive  schemes, .'had  turned 
put. 

He  thought  that  the  presbyters  would  soon  be- 
come more  dangerous  to  the  magistrates,  than  the 
yrelatical  clergy  had  ever  been. 

Frederic,  seeing  it  was  impossible,  with  safety, 
to  trust  his  life  in  their  hands,  was  obliged 
the  Mahometans  for  his  guardo 

M 


132  KEY*.  (Clearness* 

The  emperor  refused  to  convert  the  truce  at  once 
into  a  definitive  treaty, 

In  the  nighty  howeveir,  the  miserable  remains 
were  taken  down. 

I  have,  in  this  paper,  by  way  of  introduction, 
settled  the  meaning  of  those  pleasures  of  the  inir 
agination,  which  are  the  subject  of  my  present  un- 
dertaking ;  and  endeavoured,  by  several  consid- 
erations, to  recommend  to  my  readers,  the  pur- 
suit of  those  pleasures  :  I  shall  in  my  next  paper 
examine  the  several  sources  from  whence  these 
pleasures  are  derived.  \ 

Sir  Francis  Bacon,  in  His  Essay  upon  Health^ 
in  which  he  particularly  dissuades  the  reader  from 
linotty  and  subtle  disquisitions,  has  not  thought  it 
improper  to  prescribe  to  him  a  poem,  or  a  pros- 
pect ;  and  he  advises  him  to  pursue  studies  that 
fill  the  mind  with  splendid  and  illustrious  objects, 
as  history,  poetry,  and  contemplation  of  nature. 

The  English  reader,  if  he  would  see  the  notion 
explained  at  large,  may  find  it  in  Lock's  Essays 
on  the  Human  Understanding. 

Fields  of  corn  form  a  pleasant  prospect ;  and  if 
n  little  care  were  bestowed  on  the  walk's  that  lie 
between  them,  they  would  display  neatness,  regu- 
larity, and  elegance, 

Though  religion  will  indeed  bring  us  under 
some  restraints,  they  are  not  only  tolerable,  but, 
on  the  whole,  desirable. 

I  have  confined  myself  to  those  methods  for  the 
Advancement  of  piety,  which,  by  a  strict  execution 
of  the  laics,  are  in  the  power  of  a  prince,  limited 
like  ours. 

This  morning,  when,  with  great  care  and  dili- 
gence, one  of  the  gay  females  was  looking  over 
some  hoods  and  ribands,  brought  by  her  tirewo- 
man, I  employed  no  less  in  examining  the  box 
which  contained  them. 


Clearness.}       PERSPICUITY,  &c. 

Since  it  is  necessary  that  there  should  be  a  per- 
petual intercourse  of  buying  and  selling,  and  deal* 
ing  upon  credit,  the  honest  dealer,  where  fraud  is 
permitted  or  connived  at,  or  has  no  law  to  punish 
it,  is  often  undone,  and  the  knave  gets  the  advan- 
tage, 

Though  energetic  brevity  is  not  adapted  alike 
to  every  subject,  we  ought,  on  every  occasion,  to 
avoid  its  contrary,  a  languid  redundancy  of  words* 
It  is  sometimes  proper  to  be  copious,  but  never  to 
be  verbose. 

A  monarchy,  limited  like  ours,  may,  for  ought 
I  know,  be  placed,  as  it  has  often  been  represent- 
ed, just  in  the  middle  point,  from  whence  a  devi- 
ation leads,  on  the  one  hand,  to  tyranny,  and,  on 
the  other,  to  anarchy. 

Having  already  shown  how  the  fancy  is  affect-' 
ed  by  the  works  of  nature,  and  afterwards  consid- 
ered, in  general,  how,  in  forming  such  scenes  as 
are  most  apt  to  delight  the  mind  of  the  beholder, 
the  works  both  of  'nature  and  of  art  assist  each 
other  ;  I  shall  in  this  paper  throw  together  some 
reflections,  &c. 

Let  but  one  brave,  great,  active,  disinterested 
man  arise,  and  he  will  be  received,  followed  and 
venerated. 

Ambition  creates  hatred,  shiness,  discords,  se- 
ditions, and  wars. 

The  scribes  made  it  their  profession  to  study 
and  to  teach,  the  law  of  Moses. 

Sloth  saps  the  foundation  of  every  virtue,  and 
pours  upon  us  a  deluge  of  crimes  and  evils. 

The  ancient  laws  of  Home  were  so  far  from 
suffering  a  Roman  citizen  to  be  put  to  death,  that 
they  would  not  allow  him  to  be  whipped,  or  even 
to  be  bound. 

His  labours  to  acquire  knowledge  have  been 
productive  of  great  success  and  satisfaction. 


KEY.  ( Clearness. 

He  was  a  man  of  the  greatest  prudence,  justice, 
modesty,  and  virtue. 

His  favour  or  disapprobation  was  governed  by 
the  success  or  the  failure  of  an  enterprise. 

He  had  a  grateful  sense  of  the  benefits  received, 
and  did  every  thing  in  his  power  to  serve  his  ben- 
efactor. 

Many  persons  give  evident  proof,  that  either 
they  do  not  believe  the  principles  of  religion,  or 
that  they  do  not  feel  their  poiver. 

As  the  guilt  of  an  officer,  if  he  prove  negligent, 
will  be  greater  than  that  of  a  common  servant ;  so 
the  reward  of  his  fidelity,  will  be  proportionally 
greater. 

The  comfort  annexed  to  goodness  is  the  pious 
man's  strength.  It  attaches  his  heart  to  religion. 
It  inspires  his  zeal.  It  supports  his  constancy  ; 
and  accelerates  his  progress. 

SECTION  3. 
Grammar,  p.  291.     Exercises,  p.  154. 

THESE  are  the  rules  of  the  master,  who  must  be 
obeyed. 

They  attacked  the  house  of  Northumberland, 
whom  they  put  to  death. 

He  laboured  to  involve  in  ruin  his  minister, 
who  had  been  the  author  of  it.  Or — to  ruin  his 
minister,  &c. 

What  he  says,  is  true,  but  it  is  not  applicable 
to  the  point. 

The  French  marched  precipitately  as  to  an  as- 
vSured  victory ;  whereas  the  English  advanced  very 
slowly,  and  discharged  such  flights  of  arrows,  as 
did  great  execution.  When  the  former  drew  near 
the  archers,  the  latter  perceiving  that  they  were 
out  of  breath,  charged  them  with  great  vigour. 

He  was  at  a  window  in  Litchfield,  taking  a  view 


Clearness. )          PERSPICUITY;  &c. 

efthe  Cathedral,  where  a  party  of  the  royalists 
had  fortified  themselves. 

We  no  where  meet  with  a  more  splendid  or 
pleasing  show  in  nature,  than  what  is  formed  in 
the  heavens  at  the  rising  and  the  setting  of  the 
sun,  by  the  different  stains  of  light,  which  show 
themselves  in  clouds  of  different  situations. 

There  will  be  found,  throughout  this  kingdom^ 
a  round  million  of  creatures  in  human  figure, 
whose  whole  subsistence,  £c. 

It  is  the  custom  of  the  Mahometans,  if  they  see 
upon  the  ground,  any  printed  or  written  paper,  to 
take  it  up,  and  lay  it  aside  carefully,  as  not  know- 
ing but  it  may  contain  some  piece  of  their  Alcoran. 

The  laws  of  nature  are,  truly,  what  lord  Bacon 
styles  his  aphorisms,  laws  of  laws.  Civil  laws 
are  always  imperfect,  and  are  often  false  deduc- 
tions from  them,  or  applications  of  them ;  nay., 
civil  laws  stand,  in  many  instances,  in  direct  op- 
position to  the  laws  of  nature. 

It  has  iwt  &  sentiment  in  if,  says  Pope,  that  the 
author  does  not  religiously  believe. 

Many  act  so  directly  contrary  to  this  method, 
that,  from  a  habit,  ichidi  they  acquired  at  the 
University,  of  saving  time  and  paper,  they  write 
in  so  diminutive  a  manner,  that  they  can  hardly 
read  what  they  have  written. 

Thus  I  have  fairly  given  you  my  own  opinion, 
relating  to  this  weighty  affair,  as  well  as  that  of 
a  great  majority  of  both  houses  here  ;  upon  which 
I  am  confident  you  may  securely  reckon. 

If,  from  the  earliest  periods  of  life,  we  .trace  a 
youth  who  has  been  well  educated,  we  shall  per- 
ceive the  wisdom  of  the  maxims  here  recom- 
mended. 

M  2 


KEY.  ( Unity. 

CHAP.  IL 

Corrections  of  the  errors  relating  to  the  Unity 
of  a  sentence. 

SECTION  1. 
Grammar,  p.  293.    Exercises,  p.  156. 

A  SHORT  time  after  this  injury,  he  came  to  him- 
self; and  the  next  day,  was  put  on  board  his  ship, 
and  conveyed  first  to  Corinth,  and  thence  to  the 
island  of  .JEgina. 

The  Britons,  dail$  harassed  by  cruel  inroads 
from  the  Picts,  were  forced  to  call  in  the  Saxons 
for  their  defence.  These  people  reduced  the  grea- 
ter part  of  the  island  to  their  own  power ;  and 
drove  the  Britons  into  the  most  remote  and  moun- 
tainous parts.  The  rest  of  the  country,  in  customs, 
religion,  and  language,  became  wholly  Saxons. 

By  eagerness  of  temper,  and  precipitancy  of  in- 
dulgence, men  forfit  all  the  ^vantages  which  pa- 
tience would  have  procured ;  and  incur  the  oppo- 
site evils  to  their  full  extent. 

This  prostitution  of  praise  affects  not  only  the 
gross  of  mankind,  wrho  take  their  notion  of  charac- 
ters from  the  learned  ;  but  also  the  better  sort  of 
people,  who,  by  this  means,  lose  some  part  at  least 
of  their  desire  of  fame,  when  they  find  it  promis- 
cuously bestowed  on  the  meritorious  and  on  the 
undeserving.  Or — Not  only  the  gross  part  of 
mankind,  ivho  take  their  notion  of  characters  from 
the  learned,  are  affected  by  this  prostitution  of 
praise  ;  the  better  sort  must  also,  by  this  means, 
&c. 

All  the  precautions  of  prudence,  moderation, 
and  condescension,  which  Eumenes,  employed, 
were  incapable  of  mollifying  the  hearts  of  tho*e 


Unity.}  PERSPICUITY,  &c.  127 

barbarians,  and  of  extinguishing  their  jealousy, 
He  must  have  renounced  his  merit  and  virtue 
which  occasioned  it,  to  have  been  capable  of  ap- 
peasing them. 

He  who  performs  every  employment  In  its  due 
place  and  season,  suffers  no  part  of  time  to  escape 
without  profit  He  multiplies  his  days  ;  for  he 
lives  much  in  little  space. 

Desires  of  pleasure  usher  in  temptation,  and 
forward  the  growth  of  disorderly  passions. 

SECTION  2* 
Grammar,  p.  £94.    Exercises,  p.  157. 

THE  notions  of  lord  Simderland  were  always 
good.  This  nobleman,  however,  was  a  man  of 
great  expense. 

In  this  uneasy  state,  both  of  his  public  and  pri- 
vate life,  Cicero  was  oppressed  by  a  new  and  deep 
affliction,  the  death  of  his  beloved  daughter  Tul- 
lia ;  which  happened  soon  after  her  -divorce  from 
Dolabella.  The  manners  and  humours  of  this 
man  were  entirely  disagreeable  to  Tullia. 

The  sun  approaching  melts  the  snow,  and 
breaks  the  Icy  fetters  of  the  main.  Here,  vast 
sea-monsters  pierce  through  floating  islands,  with 
arms  which  can  withstand  the  crystal  rock  ;  whilst 
others,  that  of  themselves  seem  great  as  islands, 
are,  by  their  bulk  alone,  armed  against  all  but 
man.  The  superiority  which  he  possesses  over 
creatures  of  a  size  and  force  so  stupendous,  should 
make  him  mindful  of  his  privilege  of  reason ;  and 
force  him  humbly  to  adore  the  great  Composer  of 
these  wondrous  frames,  and  the  Author  of  his  own 
superior  wisdom. 

I  single  Strada  out  among  the  moderns,  because 
he  had  the  foolish  presumption  to  censure  Tacitus, 
and  to  write  history  himself*  My  friend  will 


128  KEY.  (Unity. 

forgive  this  short  excursion  in  honour  of  a  favour- 
ite writer. 

Boast  not  thyself  of  to-morrow ;  for  thou  know- 
est  not  what  a  day  may  bring  forth.  For  the 
same  reason,,  despair  not  of  to-morrow ;  it  may 
bring  forth  good  as  well  as  evil.  Vex  not  thyself 
with  imaginary  fears.  The  impending  black 
cloud,  which  is  regarded  with  so  much  dread,  may 
pass  by  harmless  ;  or  though  it  should  discharge 
the  storm,  yet  before  it  breaks,  thou  mayest  be 
lodged  in  that  lowly  mansion  which  no  storms 
ever  touch, 

^  SECTION    3, 

Grammar,  p.  296     Exercises,  p.  158. 

Disappointments  will  often  happen  to  the  best 
and  wisest  men ;  sometimes  to  the  icisest  and  best 
concerted  plans.  They  may  happen  too,  not  through 
any  imprudence  of  those  who'have  devised  the  plan, 
nor  even  througli  the  malice  or  ill  design  of  others  ; 
but  merely  in  consequence  of  some  of  those  cross 
Incidents  of  life,  which  could  not  be  foreseen. 

Without  same  degree  of  patience  exercised  un- 
der injuries,  human  life  would  be  rendered  a  state 
of  perpetual  hostility  :  offences  and  retaliations 
would  succeed  to  one  another  in  endless  train. 

Never  delay  till  to-morrow,  what  reason  and 
conscience  tell  you  ought  to  be  performed  to-day. 
'To-morrowis  not  yours  ;  and  though  you  should 
live  to  enjoy  it,  you  must  not  overload  it  with  a 
burden  not  its  own. 

We  must  not  imagine  that  there  is,  in  true  re- 
ligion, any  thing  which  overcasts  the  mind  with 
sullen  gloom  and  melancholy  austerity  ;  or  which 
derogates  fr#m  that  esteem,  which  men  are  gen- 
erally disposed  to  yield  to  exemplary  virtues. 
False  ideas  may  be  entertained  of  religion,  as  false 
and  imperfect  conceptions  of  virtue  have  often  pre- 
vailed in  the  world. 


Strength.}        PERSPICUITY,  &c,  129 

CHAP.  III. 

Corrections  of  the  errors  which  respect  the 
Strength  of  a  sentence. 

Grammar,  p.  297.    Exercises,  p.  159, 
SECTION  1. 

IT  is  six  months  since  I  paid  a  visit  to  my  rela^ 
tiotts. 

Suspend  your  censure,  till  your  judgment  on  the 
subject  can  be  wisely  formed. 

The  reason  of  his  having  acted  in  the  manner 
he  did,  was  not  fully  explained. 

If  I  were  to  give  a  reason  for  their  looking  so 
well,  it  would  be,  that  they  rise  early. 

If  I  mistake  not,  he  is  improved  both  in  knowl- 
edge and  behaviour.  Or — I  think  he  isimproved 
both  in  knowledge  $nd  behaviour. 

Those  two  boys  appear  to  be  equal  in  capacity, 

Whenever  he  sees  me,  he  inquires  concerning 
his  friends* 

The  reason  of  his  conduct  will  appear  in  the 
conclusion  of  this  narrative.  Or — His  conduct 
will  be  accounted  for  in  the>  &c. 

I  hope  this  is  the  last  time  of  my  acting  so  im- 
prudently. 

The  reason  of  his  sudden  departure,  was,  that 
the  case  did  not  admit  of  delay. 

The  people  gained  nothing  farther  by  this  step, 
than  to  suspend  their -misery.  Or  nothing  by  this 
step,  but  the  suspension  of  their  misery. 

I  have  here  supposed  that  the  reader  is  ac- 
quainted with  that  great  modern  discovery,  which 
is,  at  present,  universally  acknowledged  by  the 
inquirers  into  natural  philosophy. 

Few  words  in  the  English  language,  are  em- 
ployed in  a  more  loose  and  uncircumscribed  sense, 
than  fancy  and  imaginaion, 


130  KEY.  (Strength. 

I  intend  to  make  use  of  these  words  in  my  fol- 
lowing speculations,  that  the  reader  may  rightly 
conceive  the  subject  upon  which  I  proceed. 

Commend  me  to  an  argument  like  a  flail,  against 
which  there  is  no  fence. 

How  many  are  there,  by  whom  these  good 
tidings  were  never  heard ! 

These  points  have  been  illustrated  in  so  plain 
a  manner,  that  the  perusal  of  the  book  has  given 
me  satisfaction. 

However  clear  the  conduct  which  he  ought  to 
have  pursued,  he  had  not  resolution  to  set  about  it. 

I  wras  much  moved  on  this  occasion,  and  left  the 
place  full  of  serious  reflections. 

They  are  of  those  that  rebel  against  the  light ; 
they  know  not  its  ways,  nor  abide  in  its  paths. 

This  measure  may  afford  some  profit,  and  some 
amusement.  Or — both  profit  and  amusement. 

By  a  multiplicity  of  words,  the  sentiments  are 
not  set  off  and  accommodated ;  but,  like  David 
equipped  in  SauPs  armour,  they  are  encumbered 
and  oppressed. 

Though  closely  occupied  with  the  affairs  of  the 
nation,  he  did  not  neglect  the  concerns  of  his 
friends, 

If,  on  the  contrary,  secrecy  had  been  enjoyed, 
his  conduct  was  very  culpable. 

Less  capacity,  but  more  time,  is  required  for 
this  business. 

He  did  not  mention  Leonora,  nor  her  father's 
death. 

The  combatants  encountered  with  such  rage, 
that,  eager  only  to  assail,  and  thoughtless  of  de- 
fence, they  fell  dead  upon  the  field  together. 

I  shall  begin  with  remarking  the  defects,  and 
shall  then  proceed  to  describe  the  excellencies,  of 
this  plan  of  education. 


Strength,}          PERSPICUITY,  &c,  13J 

Numberless  orders  of  beings,  to  us  unknown, 
people  the  wide  extent  of  the  universe. 

His  extraordinary  beauty  struck  observers  with 
admiration.  Or— His  beauty  was  so  extraordina- 
ry that  it  struck,  &c. 

Thought  and  language  act  (ind  re- act  upon 
each  other.  Or— -?act  upon  each  other  mutually. 

Their  interests  were  inseparably  connected. 

Employing  all  the  circumspection  which  rea- 
son can  suggest,  let  your  prayers,  at  the  same 
time,  continually  ascend  to  heaven  for  support 
Or— While  you  employ  all  the  circumspection 
which  reason  can  suggest,  let  your  prayers  contin- 
ually ascend  to  heaven  for  support. 

SECTION  2, 
Grammar,  p.  300.     Exercises,  p.  161. 

THE  enemy  said,  I  will  pursue,  I  will  overtake, 
I  will  divide  the  spoil. 

While  the  earth  yemaineth,  seedtime  and  har- 
vest, cold  and  heat,  summer  qnd  winter,  and  day 
and  night,  shall  not  cease, 

A  man  should  endeavour  to  make  the  sphere 
of  his  innocent  pleasures  as  wide  as  possible,  that 
lie  may  retire  to  them  with  safety,  and  find  in  them 
such  a  satisfaction  as  a  wise  man  would  not  blush 
to  take,  This  advantage  we  gain  by  means  of  the 
pleasures  of  imagination.  Or—This  satisfaction 
we  enjoy  by  means  of,  &c. 

The  army  was  composed  of  Grecians,  and  Ca- 
rians,  and  Lycians,  and  Pamphylians,  and  Phry- 
gians. 

The  body  of  this  animal  was  strong,  propor- 
tionable, and  beautiful. 

Nothing  promotes  knowledge  more  than  steady 
application,  and  a  habit  of  observation. 

Though  virtue  borrows  no  assistance  from  the 
advantages  of  fortune,  yet  it  may  often  be  accom- 
panied by  them,  * 


13$  KEY.  f  Strength. 

The  knowledge  tvhich  he  has  acquired,  and 
the  habits  of  application  which  he  possesses,  will 
probably  rentier  him  very  useful. 

Their  idleness,  their  luxury  and  pleasures,  their 
criminal  deeds,  their  immoderate  passions,  their 
timidity  and  baseness  of  mind,  have  dejected  them 
to  such  degree,  as  to  make  them  weary  of  life. 

I  was  greatly  affected,  so  that  I  was  oblibed  to 
leave  the  place,  though  my  assistance  had  been 
pressingly  solicited. 

I  strenuously  opposed  those  measures,  but  it 
was  not  in  my  power  to  prevent  them. 

I  yielded  to  his  solicitation,  for  I  perceived  the 
necessity  of  doing  so. 

For  the  wisest  purposes,  Providence  has  de- 
signed our  state  to  be  checkered  with  pleasure  and 
pain.  As  such  let  us  receive  it,  and  make  the  best 
of  what  is  appointed  to  be  our  lot, 

In  the  time  of  prosperity,  he  had  stored  his 
mind  with  useful  knowledge,  with  good  principles, 
and  virtuous  dispositions  :  and  these  resources  re^ 
main  entire,  wrhen  the  days  of  trouble  come. 

He  had  made  considerable  advances  in  knowl- 
edge, though  he  was  very  young,  and  laboured 
under  several  disadvantages. 

SECTIQN  3. 
Grammar,  p.  SOS.     Exercises,  p.  163. 

I  HAVE,  with  a  good  deal  of  attention,  consid- 
ered the  subject  upon  which  I  was  desired  to  com- 
municate my  thoughts. 

Whether,  in  any  country^  a  choice  altogether 
unexceptionable  hag  been  made,  seems  doubtful. 

Let  us  endeavour  to  establish  to  ourselves  an 
interest  in  him,  \vho  in  his  hands  holds  the  reins 
of  the  whole  creation. 

Virgil,  who,  in  the  sixth  book  of  his  JEneid, 
lias  cast  the  whole  system  of  platonic  philosophy, 


Strength,}        PERSPICUITY,  &c.  133 

so  far  as  it  relates  to  the  soul  of  man,  into  beauti- 
ful allegories,  gives  us  the  punishment,  &c. 

And,  at  last,  in  the  Pyrenean  treaty,  Philip  the 
fourth  was  obliged  to  conclude  a  peace,  on  terms 
^repugnant  to  his  inclination,  to  that  of  his  people, 
to  the  interest  of  Spain,  and  to  that  of  all  Europe. 

By  a  late  calculation,  it  appears  that,  in  Great 
Britain  and  Ireland,  there  are  upwards  of  fifteen 
millions  of  inhabitants, 

And  although  persons  of  a  virtuous  and  learn- 
ed education,  when  they  come  forward  into  the 
great  world,  may  be,  and  too  often  are,  drawn  by 
the  temptations  of  youth,  and  the  opportunities  of 
a  large  fortune,  into  some  irregularities,  it  is  ever 
with  reluctance  and  compunction  of  mind,  because 
their  bias  to  virtue  still  continues, 

Were  instruction  an  essential  circumstance  in 
epic  poetry,  I  doubt  whether,  in  any  language,  a 
single  instance  could  be  given  of  this  species  of 
composition. 

Some  of  cur  most  eminent  writers  have,  as  far 
&s  it  regards  the  subsistence  of  our  affections  after 
death,  made  use  of  thisplatonic  notion,  with  great 
beauty  and  strength  of  reason. 

On  surveying  the  most  indifferent  works  of  na- 
ture, men  of  the  best  sense  have  been  touched, 
more  or  less,  with  these  groundless  horrors  and 
presages  of  futurity. 

Blessed  is  he  that  cometh  in  the  name  of  the 
Lord. 

J\Fot  every  one  that  puts  on  the  appearance  of 
goodness,  is  good, 

And  there  appeared  to  them  Elias  with  Moses. 

Your  fathers,  where  are  they  ?  and  the 
prophets,  do  they  live  for  ever  ? 

At  last,  after  much  fatigue,  through  deep  roads 
and  bad  weather,  we  came  with  no  small  difficulty 
to  our  journey's  end. 

N 


KEY.  ( Stre  ngth. 

The  praise  of  judgment,  Virgil  1ms  justly  con- 
tested with  Homer  ;  but  his  invention  remains  yet 
unrivalled. 

Instead  of  being  critics  on  others,  let  us  em- 
ploy our  criticism  on  ourselves. 

Leaving  others  to  be  judged  by  Him  who  search- 
eth  the  heart,  let  us  implore  his  assistance,  for 
enabling  us  to  ^ct  well  on  our  own  part. 

•ifter  passion  has  fora  ivhile  exercised  its  ty- 
rannical sway,  its  vehemence  may  by  degrees  sub- 
side 

This  fallacious  art,  instead  of  lengthening  life,, 
debars  us  from  enjoying  it. 

Indulging  ourselves  in  imaginary,  often  de- 
prives us  of  real  enjoyments. 

When  reduced  to  poverty,  how  will  that  noble- 
man be  able  to  conduct  himself,  who  was  educaT 
ted  only  to  magnificence  and  pleasure  ? 

It  is  highly  proper  that  a  man  should  be  ac- 
quainted with  a  variety  of  things,  the  utility  of 
which  is  above  a  child's  comprehension  :  but  is  it 
necessary,  or  even  possible,  that  a  child  should 
learn  every  thing  it  behoves  a  man  to  know  ? 

When  they  fall  into  sudden  difficulties,  they 
are  less  perplexed,  and  when  they  encounter  dan- 
gers they  are  less  alarmed,  than  others  in  the  like 
circumstances. 

For  all  your  actions,  and  particularly  for  the 
employments  of  youth,  you  must  hereafter  give  an 
account. 

SECTION  4. 
Grammar,  p.  306.     Exercises,  p.  165. 

CHARITY  breathes  habitual  kindness  toicards 
friends,  courtesy  towards  strangers,  long-suffer- 
ing to  enemies. 

Gentleness  ought  to  form  our  address,  to  regu- 
late our  speech,  and  to  diffuse  itself  over  our 
whole  behaviour. 


Strength*  J  PERSPICUITY,  &c.  135 

The  propensity  to  look  forward  into  life,  is  too 
often  immoderately  indulged,  and  grossly  abused. 

The  regular  tenor  of  a  virtuous  and  pious  life, 
will  prove  the  best  preparation  for  old  age,  for 
death,  and  for  immortality. 

These  rules  are  intended  to  teach  young  per- 
sons  to  write  with  propriety,  perspicuity  and  ele- 
gance. 

Sinful  pleasures  degrade  human  honour,  and 
blast  the  opening  prospects  of  human  felicity. 

In  this  state  of  mind,  every  object  appears 
gloomy?  and  every  employment  of  life  becomes  an 
oppressive  burden. 

They  will  acquire  different  views,  by  entering 
on  a  virtuous  course  of  action,  and  applying  to 
the  honourable  discharge  of  the  functions  of  their 
stations. 

By  the  perpetual  course  of  dissipation,  in  which 
sensualists  are  engaged  ;  by  the  excesses  which 
they  indulge  ;  by  the  riotous  revel,  and  the  mid- 
night, or  rather  morning  hours,  to  which  they  pro- 
long their  festivity ;  they  debilitate  their  bodies, 
ic ear  out  their  spirits,  and  cut  themselves  off 
from  the  comforts  and  duties  of  life. 

SECTION  5. 

Grammar,  p.  306.     Exercises,  p.  166. 

By  what  I  have  already  expressed,  the  reader 
will  perceive  the  business  upon  which  I  am  to 
proceed. 

May  the  happy  message  be  applied  to  us,  in  all 
iis  virtue,  strength,  and  comfort ! 

Generosity  is  a  showy  virtue,  of  which  many 
persons  are  very  fond. 

These  arguments  were,  without  hesitation,  and 
with  great  eagerness,  embraced. 

It  is  proper  to  be  long  in  deliberating  ;  but  we 
should  execute  speedily. 


136  KEY.  f  Strength. 

Form  your  measures  with  prudence  ;  but  divest 
yourselves  of  anxiety  about  the  issue. 

We  are  struck,  we  know  not  how,  with  the  sym- 
metry of  any  thing  we  see ;  and  immediately  ac- 
knowledge the  beauty  of  an  object,  without  inquir- 
ing into  the  cause  of  that  beauty. 

With  Cicero's  writings,  these  persons  are  more 
conversant,  than  with  those  of  Demosthenes,  wrho, 
by  many  degrees,  as  an  orator  at  least,  excelled 
the  other. 

SECTION    6. 
Grammar,  p.  308.     Exercises,  p.  166. 

OUR  British  gardeners,  instead  of  following  na- 
ture, love  to  deviate  from  it  as  much  as  possible. 
Or—instead  of  humouring,  tgc.  love  to  thwart  it^c. 

I  have  observed  of  late  the  style  of  some  great 
ministers,  very  much  to  exceed  that  of  any  other 
writers. 

The  old  may  inform  the  young  ;  and  the  young 
may  animate  the  old. 

The  account  is  generally  balanced  ;  for  what 
we  lose  on  the  one  hand,  we  gain  on  the  other. 

The  laughters  will  be  for  those  who  have  most 
wit ;  the  serious,  for  those  who  have  most  reason 
on  their  side. 

If  men  of  eminence  are  exposed  to  censure  on 
the  one  hand,  they  are  as  much  exposed  to  flatte- 
ry on  the  other.  If  they  receive  reproaches  which 
are  not  due,  they  likewise  receive  praises  that  are 
not  due. 

He  can  bribe,  but  he  cannot  seduce.  He  can 
buy,  but  he  cannot  gain.  He  can  lie,  but  he  can- 
not  deceive. 

He  embraced  the  cause  of  liberty  faintly,  and 
pursued  itirresolutely  ;  he  grew  tired  of  it,  when 
he  had  much  to  hope  ;  and  gave  it  up,  when  he  had 
nothing  to  fear. 


Strength. )  PERSPICUITY,  &c.  137 

There  may  remain  a  suspicion  that  we  overrate 
the  greatness  of  his  genius,  in  the  same  manner  as 
we  overrate  the  greatness  of  bodies,  thai  are  dis- 
proportioned  and  misshapen. 

SECTION   7- 
Grammar,  p.  S09.     Exercises,  p.  168. 

Sobriety  of  mind  suits  the  present  state  of  man. 

As  supporters  of  unlawful  assemblies,  these 
people  were  seized  and  punished. 

To  use  the  Divine  name  habitually,  and  with- 
out serious  consideration,  is  highly  irreverent. 

From  the  kindness  with  which  he  was  at  first 
received,  great  hopes  of  success  were  entertained* 

They  conducted  themselves  craftily,  and  en- 
snared us  before  we  had  time  to  escape. 

To  our  confined  and  humble  station  it  belongs 
not  to  censure ;  but  to  submit,  trust,  and  adore. 

The  solace  of  the  mind,  under  all  its  labour,  is 
hope  ;  and  there  are  few  situations  which  exclude 
It  entirely. 

The  humiliation  of  the  mighty,  and  the  fall  of 
ambition  from  its  towering  height,  little  concern 
the  bulk  of  mankind, 

Tranquility,  order,  and  magnanimity,  dwell 
with  the  pious  and  resigned  man. 

Idleness,  ease,  and  prosperity  have  a  natural 
tendency  to  generate  folly  and  vice. 

By  a  cheerful,  candid,  and  uniform  temper,  he 
-conciliated  general  favour. 

We  reached  the  mansion  before  noon.  It  was 
u  strong,  magnificent,  Gothic  edifice. 

I  had  a  long  and  perilous  journey,  but  a  pleas- 
ing companion,  who  relieved  the  fatigue  of  it. 

The  speech  was  introduced  by  a  sensible  exor> 
dium,  which  made  a  favourable  impression. 

The  commons  made    a    warm    remonstrance 
against  so  arbitrary  a  requisition, 
N    2 


138  KEY.  {Strength. 

The  truly  illustrious  are  they  who  do  not  court 
the  praise  of  the  world,  but  who  perform  the  ac- 
tions which  deserve  it. 

By  means  of  society,  our  wants  are  supplied, 
and  our  lives  are  rendered  comfortable  ;  our  capa- 
cities are  enlarged,  and  our  virtuous  affections  call- 
ed forth  into  their  proper  exercise. 

Life  cannot  but  prove  vain  to  them  who  affect  a 
disrelish  of  every  pleasure,  that  is  not  both  ex- 
quisite and  new  ;  who  measure  enjoyment,  not  by 
their  own  feelings,  but  by  the  standard  of  fashion ; 
who  think  themselves  miserable  if  others  do  not 
admire  their  state. 

By  the  experience  of  distress,  an  arrogant  in- 
sensibility of  temper  is  most  effectually  corrected  ; 
as  the  remembrance  of  our  own  sufferings,  natural- 
ly prompts  us  to  feel  for  others  when  they  suffer. 
But  if  Providence  has  been  so  kind  as  not  to  sub- 
ject us  to  much  of  this  discipline  in  our  own  lot, 
let  us  draw  improvement  from  the  harder  lot  of 
others.  Let  us  sometimes  step  aside  from  the 
smooth  and  flowery  paths,  in  which  we  are  permit- 
ted to  walk,  in  ordertoview  the  toilsome  march  of 
our  fellows  through  the  thorny  desert. 

As  no  one  is  without  his  failings,  few  also  are 
void  of  amiable  qualities. 

Providence  delivered  them  up  to  themselves, 
and  they  became  their  own  tormentors. 

From  disappointments  and  trials,  we  learn  the 
insufficiency  of  temperal  things  to  happiness  :  and 
are  taught  to  seek  it  in  religion  and  virtue. 


Figures  J         PERSPICUITY,  &c.  130 

CHAP.  IV. 

Corrections  of  the  errors  that  relate  to  Figures  of 

Speech. 
Grammar,  p.  315.    Exercises,  p.  170. 

No  human  happiness  is  so  pure  as  not  to  con- 
tain any  alloy. 

There  is  a  time  when  factions,  by  their  vehe* 
nience,  confound  and  disable  one  another. 

I  intend  to  make  use  of  these  words  in  my  fol- 
lowing speculations.  Or—  in  the  course  of  my 
speculations. 

Hope,  the  cheering  star  of  life,  darts  a  ray  of 
light  through  the  thickest  gloom. 

The  scheme  was  highly  expensive  to  him,  and 
proved  the  gulf  of  his  estate. 

He  was  so  much  skilled  in  the  exercise  of  the 
oar,  that  few  could  equal  him. 

The  death  of  Cato  has,  if  1  may  be  allowed  to 
say  so,  rendered  the  Senate  an  orphan. 

Let  us  be  careful  to  suit  our  sails  to  the  wind 
and  weather  ;  and  to  steer  our  vessel  aright,  that 
we  may  avoid  the  rocks  and  shoals,  which  lie 
every  where  around  us. 


At  length  Erasmus,  that  great  injxird 
(The  glory  of  the  priesthood  and  the  shame,) 
Aftewm'dthe  wild  torrent  of  a  barbarous  age, 
And  drove  those  holy  Vandals  off  the  stage. 

In  this  Our  day  of  proof,  our  land  of  hope, 
The  good  man  has  his  clouds  that  intervene  $ 
Clouds  that  may  dim  his  sublunary  day, 
But  cannot  darken  ;  even  the  best  must  own, 
Patience  and  resignation  are  the  pillars 
Of  human  peace  on  earth. 

On  the  wide  sea  of  letters,  'twas  thy  boast 
To  crowd  eacli  sail,  and  touch  at  ev'ry  coast  2 
From  that  rich  deep  how  often  hast  thou  brought 
The  pure  and  precious  pearls  of  splendid  thought  ! 
How  didst  thou  triumph  on  that  subject  tide, 
Till  vanity's  wild  giist;  and  stormy  pride? 


KEY.  fFigure9. 

Drove  thy  strong  bark^  in  evil  hour,  to  split 
Upon  the  fatal  rock  of  impious  wit  1 

Since  the  time  that  reason  began  to  exert  her 
powers,  thought,  during  our  waking  hours,  has 
been  active  in  every  breast,  without  a  moment's 
suspension  or  pause.  The  current  of  ideas  has 
been  always  flowing.  The  wheels  of  the  spirit- 
ual  engine  have  circulated  with  perpetual  motion. 

The  man  who  has  no  rule  over  his  own  spirit, 
possesses  no  defence  against  dangers  of  any  sort. 
He  lies  open  to  every  insurrection  of  ill-humour, 
and  every  invasion  of  distress.  Whereas  he  who 
is  employed  in  regulating  his  mind,  is  making 
provision  against  all  the  accidents  of  life.  He  is 
erecting  a  fortress  into  which,  in  the  day  of  dan- 
ger, he  can  retreat  with  safety. 

Tamerlane  the  Great,  writes  to  Bajazet,  empe- 
ror of  the  Ottomans,  in  the  following  terms, — 
"  Where  is  the  monarch  who  dares  resist  us  ? 
Where  is  the  potentate  who  does  not  glory  in  be- 
ing numbered  among  our  attendants?  As  for 
thee,  ignobly  descended,  since  thy  unbounded  am- 
bition has  subverted  all  thy  vain  expectations,  it 
would  be  proper,  that  thou  shouldst  repress  thy 
temerity,  repent  of  thy  perfidy,  and  become  just 
and  sincere  in  all  thy  transactions.  This  will 
secure  to  thee  a  safe  and  quiet  retreat ;  and  pre- 
serve thee  from  falling  a  victim  to  that  vengeance, 
which  thou  hast  so  highly  provoked,  and  so  justly 
deserved." 

It  is  pleasant  to  be  virtuous  and  good  ;  because 
that  it  is  to  excel  many  others  :  it  is  pleasant  to 
grow  better  ;  because  that  it  is  to  excel  ourselves  : 
it  is  pleasant  even  to  mortify  and  subdue  our  lusts  ; 
fyecaus®  that  is  victory :  it  is  pleasant  to  command 
our  appetites  and  passions,  and  to  keep  them  in 
due  order,  within  the  bounds  of  reason  and  relig- 
ion ;  because  this  is  empire* 


Promiscuous* J    PEBSPICUITY,  &c.  141 

CHAP.  V. 

Corrections  of  the  errors  in  the  chapter  of  pro* 
miscuoiis  exercises. 
See  Exercises,  p.  173. 
SECTION    1. 

WHAT  is  human  life  to  all,  but  a  mixture  of 
some  scattered  joys  and  pleasures,  with  various 
cares  and  troubles  ? 

Favours  of  every  kind  are  doubled,  when  they 
are  speedily  conferred. 

He  that  is  himself  weary,  will  soon  weary  the 
company. 

He  that  will  have  the  Tiindness  of  others,  must 
endure  their  follies. 

The  first  years  of  man  must  make  provision  for 
the  last. 

Perpetual  levity  must  end  in  ignorance. 

In  these,  and  in  similar  cases,  we  should,  gen- 
erally, in  our  alms,  suffer  no  one  to  be  witness,  but 
Him  who  must  see  every  thing. 

The  neglect  of  his  studies  and  opportunities  of 
improvement,  is  tbe  ground  of  his  being  so  badly 
qualified  for  the  business.  Or— is  the  reason  that 
he  is  so  badly,  8fc. 

That  Plutarch  wrote  the  lives  of  Demosthenes 
and  Cicero  at  ChjEronea,  is  clear  from  his  own 
account. 

I  wish  to  cultivate  a  further  acquaintance  with 
you. 

He  may  make  the  attempt,  but  he  cannot  succeed. 

No  pains  were  spared  by  his  tutor,  to  improve 
him  in  all  useful  knowledge. 

In  no  scene  of  her  life  was  Mary's  address 
more  remarkably  displayed. 

This  wras  the  original  cause  of  so  barbarous  a 
practice. 


KEY.  {Promiscuous. 

By  a  variety  of  false  insinuations,  he  craftily 
endeavoured  to  turn  the  emperor  to  his  purpose. 

The  beauty  displayed  in  the  earth,  equals  the 
grandeur  conspicuous  in  the  heavens. 

In  the  health  and  vigour,;of  the  body,  and  in 
the  flourishing  state  of  worldly  fortune,  all  rejoice. 

What  passes  in  the  hearts  of  men,  is  generally 
invisible  to  the  public  eye. 

Many  associations  are  formed  by  laws  the  most 
arbitrary. 

These  instances  will,  it  is  hoped  be  sufficient  to 
satisfy  every  reasonable  mind. 

By  rules  so  general  and  comprehensive  as  these 
are,  the  clearest  ideas  are  conveyed. 

He  determined  not  to  comply  with  the  proposal, 
unless  he  should  receive  a  fair  compensator 

There  can  be  no  doubt  that  health  is  preferable 
to  riches. 

We  believe,  said  they  to  their  friends,  that  the 
perusal  of  such  books  has  ruined  our  principles. 
Or — ruined  your  principles. 

John's  temper  greatly  indisposed  him  forgiving 
instruction*  Or — -for  receiving  instruction. 

Vegetation  is  constantly  advancing,  though  no 
eye  can  trace  its  gradations. 

His  importunity  was  the  reason  of  my  consent- 
ing to  the  measure. 

I  conceived  a  great  regard  for  him  ;  and  I  could 
not  but  mourn  for  the  loss  of  him.  Or— for  the 
loss  he  had  sustained. 

He  was  confined  in  his  own  house,  by  the  officer 
who  had  apprehended  him.  Or — He  was  con- 
fined  in  the  house  of  the  officer,  by  ichom  he  had 
been  apprehended. 

Charlotte,  the  friend  of    Amelia,  to  whom  no 
one  imputed  blame,  was  too  prompt  in  hwf 
vindication.     Or — in  her  own  vindication. 


Promiscuous. )      PERSPICUITY,  &c.  143 

Men  who  are  rich  and  avaricious,  drown  them- 
selves in  a  spring  which  might  have  watered  ail 
around  them. 

I  should  prefer  his  being  of  rather  slow  parts, 
than  of  a  bad  disposition. 

As  soon  as  Eugenius  undertook  the  care  of  a 
parish,  it  engrossed  his  attention. 

The  plan  will  at  once  contribute  to  general  con- 
venience, and  to  the  beauty  and  elegance  of  the 
town. 

Together  with  the  national  debt,  the  greatest 
national  advantages,  are  transmitted  to  succeed- 
ing generations. 

Their  intimacy  had  probably  commenced  in  the 
happier  period  of  their  youth  and  obscurity. 

His  subject  is  precisely  of  that  kind,  which  only 
a  daring  imagination  could  have  adopted. 

This  emperor  conjured  the  Senate,  that  the  pu- 
rity of  his  reign  might  not  be  stained  fey  the  blood 
of  even  a  guilty  senator. 

It  is  a  happy  constitution  of  mind,  to  be  able  to 
view  successive  objects  so  steadily,  that  the  more 
important  may  never  prevent  us  from  doing  jus- 
tice to  those  which  are  of  less  consequence. 

This  activity  drew  over  to  Virginia,  great  num- 
bers of  enterprising  men  ;  who  caine  either  in 
search  of  fortune,  or  of  liberty,  which  was  the  on- 
ly compensation  for  the  want  of  fortune. 

The  erroneous  judgment  of  parents,  respecting 
the  conduct  of  schoolmasters,  has  paved  the  way 
to  the  ruin  of  hopeful  boys,  and  disturbed  the 
peace  of  many  an  ingenious  man,  who  had  engag- 
ed in  the  care  of  youth. 

SECTION  2. 
Exercises,  p.  IT 5. 

THE  Greek  is,  doubtless,  a  language  much  supe- 
pior,  in  richness,  harmony,  and  variety,  to  the  Latin, 


KEY.  f  Promiscuous 

Those  three  great  geniiises  flourished  iu  the 
same  period. 

He  has  made  a  judicious  adaption  of  the  exam- 
ples to  the  rule. 

This  part  of  knowledge  has  been  always  grow- 
ing, and  it  will  continue  to  grow,  till  the  subject 
be  exhausted. 

A  boy  of  twelve  years  of  aye  may  study  these 
lessons.  Or~a  boy  twelve  years  old. 

The  servant  produced  from  his  late  master  ai* 
unexceptionable  character. 

I  am  surprised  that  so  great  a  philosopher  should 
spend  his  time  in  the  pursuit  of  such  chimeras. 

The  ends  of  a  divine,  and  those  of  a  human  leg- 
islator, are  vastly  different. 

Scarcely  had  the  «  Spirit  of  Laws"  made  its 
appearance,  when  it  was  attacked.  Or— vVa 
sooner ——than . 

His  donation  was  the  more  acceptable,  because 
it  was  given  without  solicitation.  Or — as  it  was 
•given,  <Sfc. 

This  subject  is  an  unwelcome  intruder,  affording 
an  uneasy  sensation,  and  always  bringing  with  it 
a  mixture  of  concern  and  compassion. 

He  accordingly  draws  out  his  forces,  and  offers 
battle  to  Hiero,  who  immediately  accepts  it. 

James  lay  late  in  bed  yesterday  ;  and  this  morn- 
ing he  lies  still  later. 

The  reason  of  this  strange  proceeding,  will  be 
explained  when  I  make  my  defence. 

I  have  often  observed  him,  and  this  is  his  mode 
of  proceeding  :  he  first  enjoins  silence  ;  and  then, 
&c. 

Not  having  known  or  considered  the  subject, 
he  made  a  crude  decision. 

All  of  them  were  deceived  by  his  fair  pretences, 
of  them  lost  their  property, 


Promiscuous.  J     PERSPICUITY,  &<%  145 

It  is  more  than  a  year  since  I  left  school. 

He  was  guilty  of  conduct  so  atrocious,  that  he 
was  entirely  deserted  by  his  friends. 

No  other  employment  than  that  of  a  bookseller, 
suited  his  taste.  Or — No  employment  but  that  of 
a  bookseller,  &c. 

By  this  I  am  instructed;  and  by  that  I  am  hon- 
oured. 

I  pleaded  that  I  was  sincere  ;  and,  after  some 
time,  he  assented  to  the  truth  of  it ;  by  which  I  en- 
tirely escaped  punishment. 

To  this  I  am  the  more  disposed,  as  it  will  serve 
to  illustrate  the  principles  above  advanced. 

From  what  I  have  said,  you  will  readily  per- 
ceive the  subject  on  which  I  am  to  proceed. 

These  are  points  too  trivial  to  be  noticed.  They 
are  objects  with  which  I  am  totally  unacquainted. 

The  nearer  that  men  approach  to  each  other,  the 
more  numerous  are  their  points  of  contact,  and 
the  greater  will,  be  their  pleasures  or  their  pains. 

Thus  I  have  endeavoured  to  render  the  subject 
more  intelligible. 

This  is  the  most  useful  art  which  men  possess. 

In  dividing  their  subjects,  the  French  writers  of 
sermons  study  neatness. 

There  is  not  more  beauty  in  one  of  them  than  in 
another. 

SECTION  3. 
Exercises,  p.  177. 

STUDY  to  unite  gentleness  of  manners  with  firm- 
ness  of  principle,  affable  behaviour  with  untainted 
inteeritv. 

o      «/ 

In  that  work,  we  are  frequently  interrupted  by 
unnatural  thoughts. 

If  we  except  one  or  two  expressions,  the  com- 
position is  not  liable  to  censure, 

O 


146  KEY.  f  Promiscuous 

To  answer  his  purpose  effectually,  he  selected  a 
very  moving  story. 

I  am  not  able  to  discover  whether  these  points 
are  in  any  manner  connected. 

These  are  arguments  which  cannot  be  refuted 
by  all  the  cavils  of  infidelity. 

I  was  much  inclined  to  reply  to  this  matter. 

I  hope  that  I  shall  not  be  troubled  in  future,  OH 
this,  or  any  similar  occasion. 

It  is  difficult  to  unite  copiousness  with  precision* 

Let  us  consider  the  proper  means  to  effect  our 
purpose. 

We  must  pay  attention  to  what  precedes,  and 
what  immediately  follows. 

The  more  this  track  is  pursued,  and  the  more 
eloquence  is  studied,  the  letter  we  shall  be  guar- 
ded against  a  false  taste. 

True  believers  of  every  denomination  compose 
the  church  of  God. 

This  is  the  substance  of  what  hzis  been  said  on 
the  subject. 

A  perfect  union  of  wit  and  judgment,  is  one  of 
the  rarest  things  that  occur. 

Praise,  like  gold  and  diamonds,  owes  its  value 
only  to  its  scarcity. 

Intemperance,  though  it  may  fire  the  spirits  for 
an  hour,  will  make  life  short  or  miserable. 

From  the  errors  of  their  education,  all  their 
miseries  have  proceeded. 

The  disinterestedness  of  their  conduct  produ- 
ced general  abmiration. 

I  viewed  the  habitation  of  my  departed  friend. — 
Venerable  shade  !  I  gave  thee  a  tear  then :  accept 
of  one  cordial  drop  that  falls  to  thy  memory  now. 

We  are  here  to-day  ;  and  gone  to-morrow. 

This  author  is  more  remarkable  for  strength  of 
sentiment,  than  for  harmony  of  language. 
Many  persons  are  more  delighted  with  correct 


Promiscuous.}    PERSPICUITY,  &c. 

and  elegant  language,  than  with  important  senti- 
ments and  accurate  reasoning. 

I  feel  myself  grateful  to  my  friend,  for  all  the 
instances  of  kindness,  which  he  has  manifested  to 
me.  Or— -for  all  Ms  proofs  of  kindness. 

It  is  not  from  this  world  that  any  ray  of  com- 
fort c&n  proceed,  to  cheer  the  gloom  of  the  last  hour. 

SECTION   4. 
Exercises,  p.  179. 

IT  is  dangerous  for  mortal  beauty,  or  terrestrial 
virtue,  to  be  examined  by  too  strong  a  light. 

Beautiful  women  seldom  possess  any  great  ac- 
complishment of  mind,  because  they,  for  the  most 
party  study  behaviour  rather  than  solid  excellence. 

To  fret  and  repine  at  every  disappointment  of 
vur  wishes,  is  to  discover  the  temper  of  froward 
children,  not  of  men,  far  less  of  Christians. 

It  is  decreed  by  Providence,  that  nothing  truly 
valuable  shall  be  obtained  in  our  present  state, 
but  with  difficulty  and  danger, 

Labour  necessarily  requires  pauses  of  ease  and 
relaxation ;  and  the  deliciousness  of  ease  com- 
monly makes  us  unwilling  to  return  to  labour* 

Nothing  can  be  great  which  is  not  right ;  nothing 
which  reason  condemns,  can  be  suitable  to  the  dig- 
nity of  the  human  mind. 

In  youth,  we  have  warm  hopes,  which  are  soon 
blasted  by  rashness  and  great  designs,  which  are 
defeated  by  inexperience, 

To  the  children  of  idleness,  the  haunts  of  dissi- 
pation open  many  a  wide  and  inviting  gate,  by 
night  and  by  day. 

True  virtue  must  form  one  complete  and  entire 
system.  All  its  parts  are  connected  ;  piety  with 
morality,  charity  with  justice,  benevolence  with 
temperance  and  fortitude, 


KEY.          {Promiscuous. 

Dissimulation  degrades  parts  and  learning ;  06- 
scures  the  lustre  of  every  accomplishment ;  and 
sinks  us  into  universal  contempt. 

Positive  as  you  now  are  in  your  opinions,  and 
confident  in  your  assertions,  be  assured  that  the 
time  approaches,  when  both  men  and  things  will 
appear  to  you  in  a  different  light. 

In  this  age  of  dissipation  and  luxury,  how  ma- 
ny avenues  are  constantly  open  that  lead  to  the 
temple  of  folly  ? 

By  extravagance  and  idleness,  and  the  vain  am- 
lition  of  emulating  others  in  the  splendid  show  of 
life,  may  run  into  expense  beyond  their  fortune. 

Objects  are  distinguished  from  each  other  by 
their  qualities  :  they  are  separated  by  the  dis- 
tance of  time  or  place. 

Clarendon,  being  a  man  of  extensive  capacity, 
stored  his  mind  with  a  variety  of  ideas  ;  which 
circumstance  contributed  to  the  successful  exer- 
tion of  his  vigorous  abilities. 

SECTION  5. 
Exercises,  p.  180. 

The  highest  degree  of  reverence  should  be  paid 
io  youth ;  and  nothing  indecent  should  be  suffered 
to  approach  their  eyes  or  ears. 

He  who  is  blessed  with  a  clear  conscience,  en* 
joys,  in  the  wrorst  conjunctures  of  human  life,  a 
peace,  a  dignity,  an  elevation  of  mind,  peculiar  to 
virtue. 

In  a  few  years,  the  hand  of  industry  may 
change  the  face  of  a  country  ;  but  it  often  requires 
as  many  generations,  to  change  the  sentiments 
and  manners  of  a  people. 

When  the  human  mind  dwells  long  and  atten- 
tively on  any  subject,  the  passions  are  apt  to  grow 
warm,  interested  and  enthusiastic:  and  often 
force  into  their  service  the  understanding  whicti 
they  ought  te  obey. 


Promiscuous. J    PERSPICUITY,  &c,  149 

-Some  years  afterwards,  being  released  from 
prison  he  was  by  reason  of  his  consummate  knowl- 
edge of  law  and  military  affairs,  exalted  to  the 
supreme  power. 

The  discontented  man  is  never  found  without  a, 
great  share  of  malignity.  His  spleen  irritates 
and  sours  his  temper,  and  leads  him  to  discharge 
its  venom  on  all  with  whom  he  stands  connected. 

We  cannot  doubt  that  all  the  proceedings  o^ 
Providence,  when  fully  understood,  will  appear 
as  equitable,  as  now  they  seem  irregular. 

All  that  great  wealth  generally  gives  above  a 
moderate  fortune,  is,  more  room  for  the  freaks  of 
caprice,  and  more  privilege  for  ignorance  and  vice ; 
a  quicker  succession  of  flatteries,  and  a  larger  cir- 
cle of  voluptuousness. 

The  miscarriages  of  the  great  designs  of  princes, 
are  recorded  in  the  histories  of  the  world,  but  are 
of  small  use  to  the  bulk  of  mankind,  who  seem 
very  little  interested  in  admonitions  against  er- 
rors ivhich  they  cannot  commit. 

Were  there  any  man  who  could  say,  that  he 
had  never,  in  the  course  of  his  life,  suffered  him- 
self to  be  transported  by  passion,  or  given  just 
ground  of  offence  to  any  one,  such  a  man  might 
have  some  plea  for  impatience,  when  he  received 
from  others  unreasonable  treatment. 

Christianity  will,  at  some  future  period,  influ- 
ence the  conduct  of  nations  as  well  as  of  individ- 
uals. But  this  event,  though  its  greatest,  will 
tprobably  be  its  latest  triumph  ;  for  it  can  be  effect- 
ed only  through  the  medium  of  private  character  : 
and  it  will,  therefore,  be  a  change  not  rapid  in  its 
progress,  and  visible  at  every  step  ;  but  gradual 
in  its  advances,  and  perceptible  only  when  consid- 
erable effects  have  been  produced. 

0  8 


KEY.          f  Promiscuous. 

The  British  constitution  stands  among  the  na- 
tions of  the  earthy  like  an  ancient  oak  in  the  icocd, 
which,  after  having  overcome  many  a  blast,  over- 
tops the  other  trees  of  the  forest,  and  commands 
respect  and  veneration. 

SECTION  6. 
See  Exercises,  p.  182. 

WHAT  an  anchor  is  to  a  ship  in  a  dark  night, 
on  an  unknown  coast,  and  amidst  a  boisterous 
ocean,  that  is  the  hope  of  future  happiness  to  the 
soul,  when  distracted  by  the  confusions  of  the 
World.  In  danger,  it  gives  security;  amidst 
general  fluctuation,  it  affords  one  fixed  point  of  rest* 

Our  pride  and  self-conceit  render  us  quar el- 
some  and  contentious,  by  nourishing  a  weak  and 
childish  sensibility  to  every  fancied  point  of  our 
honour  or  interest,  while  they  shut  up  all  regard 
to  the  honour  or  interest  of  our  brethren. 

If  there  be  any  first  principle  of  wisdom,  it  is 
undoubtedly  this  :  the  distresses  that  are  remova- 
ble, endeavour  to  remove;  those  which  cannot  be 
removed,  bear  with  as  little  disquiet  as  you  can  : 
in  ever]/  situation  of  life,  there  are  comforts  5  find 
them  out,  and  enjoy  them. 

Instead  of  aspiring  beyond  your  proper  level, 
bring  down  your  mind  to  your  state ;  lest,  by  aim- 
ing too  high,  you  spend  your  life  in  a  train  of 
fruitless  pursuits,  and  bring  yourself  at  last  to  a 
state  of  entire  insignificance  and  contempt. 

Often  have  we  seen,  that  what  we  considered  at 
the  time,  as  a  sore  disappointment,  has  proved  in 
the  issue,  to  be  a  merciful  providence  ;  and  that,  if 
what  ice  once  eagerly  wished  for,  had  been  obtain- 
ed, it  would  have  been  so  far  from  making  us  hap- 
py, that  it  would  have  produced  our  ruin. 

Can  the  stream  continue  to  fiow  when  it  is  cut 


Promiscuous.}     PERSPICUITY,  &c.  151 

off  from  the  fountain  ?  Can  the  branch  flourish 
when  torn  away  from  the  stock  which  gave  it  nour- 
ishment ?  No  more  can  dependent  spirits  be  hap- 
py, when  deprived  of  all  union  with  the  Father  of 
spirits,  and  the  Fountain  of  happiness. 

Prosperity  is  redoubled  to  a  good  man,  by  Ms 
generous  use  of  it*  It  is  reflected  back  upon  him 
from  every  one  whom  he  makes  happy.  In  the 
intercourse  of  domestic  affection,  in  the  attachment 
of  friends,  the  gratitude  of  dependents,  the  esteem 
and  good  will  of  all  who  know  him,  he  sees  bles- 
sings multiplied  round  him  on  every  side. 

He  that  would  pass  the  latter  part  of  life  with 
honour  and  decency,  must,  when  he  is  young,  con- 
sider, that  he  shall  one  day  be  old  ;  and  remember 
when  he  is  old,  that  he  once  was  young.  In  youth, 
he  must  lay  up  knowledge  for  his  support,  when 
his  powers  of  acting  shall  forsake  him ;  and  in  age, 
forbear  to  animadvert  with  rigour,  on  faults  which 
experience  only  can  correct 

Let  us  consider  that  youth  is  not  of  long  dura- 
lion  ;  and  that  in  maturer  age,  when  the  enchant- 
ments of  fancy  shall  cease,  and  phantoms  dance  no 
more  about  us,  we  shall  have  no  comforts  but  the 
approbation  of  our  own  hearts,  the  esteem  of  wise 
men,  and  the  means  of  doing  good.  Let  us  live 
as  men  who  are  some  time  to  grow  old  ;  and  to 
whom  if  will  be  the  most  dreadful  of  all  evils,  to 
count  their  past  years  ©nly  by  follies,  and  to  be 
reminded  of  their  former  luxuriance  of  health, 
only  by  the  maladies  which  riot  has  produced. 


INTRODUCTION 

TO   THE 

«1LPH£BETICAL  INDEX. 

AS  the  grammar  contains  a  considerable  number  of  po- 
sitions and  minor  rules,  which  are  not  readily  discoverable 
by  the  general  arrangmentof  the  work  ;  and  as  the  last  edi- 
tions of  the  Exercises  and  Key,  comprise  many  critical  and 
explanatory  notes,  which  could  not  conveniently  be  inserted 
in  the  Grammar;  the  author  conceived  that  an  Alphabeti- 
cal Index  to  the  Grammar,  Exercises,  and  Key,  would  not 
be  unacceptable  to  the  reader.  With  this  view,  and  in  con- 
formity witfi  the  wishes  of  persons,  for  whose  judgment  he 
entertains  jrreat  respect,  he  has  produced  the  following  In- 
dex to  the  three  books. 

In  forming  this  work,  it  was  not  his  sole  design  to  assist 
the  student,  in  readily  discovering  any  particular  subjects  of 
grammar.  He  wished  also  to  express  the  most  important 
principles  of  the  art,  in  short,  comprehensive,  -and  striking 
sentences,  calculated  to  stimulate  the  learner's  curiosity, 
and  to  impress  the  subjects  more  deeply  in  his  memory. 
The  author  was  desirous  that  the  work  should  at  once  form 
an  Index  to  particulars,  and  an  Epitome  of  the  chief  rules 
and  principles  of  the  languag-e. 

The  reader  who  consults  this  Index,  will  observe  that 
the  references  to  the  pages  always  point  to  the  Grammar, 
unless  the  Exercises,  or  the  Key,  are  mentioned.  The  Ste- 
reotype edition  of  the  Grammar," the  Twelfth  of  the  Exercises, 
and  the  Tenth  of  the  Key,  are  the  editions  referred  to :  and 
the  pages  of  reference  to  each  of  the  books,  will  be  the  same, 
in  every  subsequent  edition. 

In  all  cases,  where  explanatory  notes,  or  'critical  dis- 
cussions, have  been  inserted  in  the  Exercises  or  the  Key, 
the  Index  refers  to  the  pages  which  contain  them  :  and,  in 
a  few  special  cases,  these  books  are  referred  to,  as  illustrat- 
ing and  exemplifying  the  rules.  But  general  references  of 
this  kind  could  not  be  made,  without  giving  the  Index  too 
great  an  extent.  The  student  may,  however,  in  every  rule 
that  is  mentioned,  readily  apply  to  the  correspondent  Exer- 
cise and  Key  ;  in  which  he  will  always  find  a  variety  of  ex- 
emplification, and,  in  many  instances,  extended  views  of 
the  subject.  " 


ALPHABETICAL  INDEX 

TO   THE 

GRAMMAR,  EXERCISES,  AND  KEY, 


ABSOLUTE.  Case  absolute-Its  nature  explaiiiifl,  78,141 
It  belongs  to  no  verb,  expressed  or  implied,  140 

How  to  be  parsed,  221 

How  to  be  pointed,  261 

ACCENT.  Its  nature  and  distinctions,  224—229 

Accent  dignifies  syllables ;  emphasis,  words,  233 

Manner  of  pronouncing  the  unaccented  vowels,  denotes 
the  speaker's  education,  31,32 

By  what  marks  signified,  270 

ACCUSATIVE  case.  The  same  as  the  objective,  53 

ADDRESS  to  the  young  students,  on  the  use  and  abuse  of 
their  literary  attainments,  S27,328 

ADJECTIVE.    The  definition  of  it,  56 

It  is  varied  only  by  degrees  of  Comparison,  57 

Whether  the  positive  is  a  degree  of  comparison,  57 

Various  modes  of  forming  the  degrees  of  comparison,  57,58 
How  adjectives  become  nouns,  &  nouns  adjectives,  58,166 
Though  the  degrees  of  comparison  are  indefinite  in  num- 
ber, yet  language  requires  but  few  of  them,  59 
The  superlative  of  Eminence,  and  the  superlative  of  Com- 
parison, distinguished,  60 
Every  adjective  has  its  substantive,                                 156 
Adjective  improperly  used  as  adverbs,                    161,162 
Rules  for  avoiding  this  impropriety,            Exercises,    113 
Adjective  pronoun  such  is  often  misapplied,                  162 
ADJECTIVE.    Double  comparatives  and  superlatives  im- 
proper,                                                                        162 
Adjectives  having  a  superlative  signification,  do  not  ad- 
mit of  comparison,                                                        163 
Degrees  of  it  often  inaccurately  applied,                163,164 
In  particular  cases,  the  adjective  and  noun  should  not  be 
separated,                                                                       164 
When  placed  before,  when  after  its  noun,              164,165 
A  plural  adjective  pronoun  will  sometimes  associate  with 
a  singular  noun,                                                             165 
In  what  cases  to  be  omitted,  in  what  repeated,             208 
How  to  be  pointed,                                                     359 


15-4  INDEX* 

ADJECTIVE  pronoun.     See  Pronoun. 
ADJUNCTS.     Their  nature  and  punctuation,         258,263 
ADVERB.     Its  nature^  origin,  and  varieties,  119,121 

The  same  word  occasionally  used  as  an  adverb,  an  adjec- 
tive, or  a  substantive,  120.     See  Words. 
Adverbs  of  time  not  superceded  by  the  tenses  of  verbs— • 
and  why,  122 
Adverbs  improperly  used  as  adjectives,  162 
This  point  elucidated,                Exercises,  63.   Key,  46 
Rules  to  determine  xvhen  the  adverb,  and  when  the  adjec- 
tive, should  be  used,                                  Exercises,  113 
Its  appropriate  situation  in  general,                 186,187,288 
The  adverb  never  commonly  precedes  the  verb,  188 
The  adverb  where  improperly  used  for  in  which,           188 
Adverbs  improperly  used  for  substantives,              188,189 
When  to  be  omitted,                                                      210 
How  to  be  pointed,                                                  260,264 

See  Negatives. 

AFFIRMATIO  is  not  the  essence  of  the  verb,  72,73,76 
ALLEGORY.  Its  nature.  Rules  for  using  it  properly.  3 19,320 
ALPHABET.  Nature  of  a  perfect  one,  15 

The  English  alphabet  imperfect,  15,17 

ANTITHESIS.    Its  nature,  323— It  should  be  discreetly 
used,  324 

APOLOGY  for  the  author's  frequent  additions  to  his  gram- 
matical works.  Key,  p.  3 
APOSTROPHE.     The  nature  and  use  of  this  figure,      323 

See  Characters. 

APPOSITION.    Rule  respecting  the  cases  of  nouns  in  &j> 

position,  169,177.     Exercises,  71 

Nouns  in  this  state  how  to  be  pointed,  261 

See  JVbuns. 

ARRANGEMENT.     A  skillful  arrangement  of  words  and 

members  promotes  perspicuity,  152,164, 186,187,288,292 

It  also  promotes  the  strength  of  a  sentence,  303,308 

It  conduces  to  the  harmony  of  language,  311,313 

ARTICLE.     Its  nature,  use,  and  importance,       44,46,167 

The  article  a  agrees  with  nouns  in  the  singular  number 

only  :  the  article  the  with  nouns  in  both  numbers,     166 

Omitting  or  using  the  article  a  forms  a  nice  distinction  in 

the  sense,  168 

When  to  be  omitted,  when  repeated,  168,169,207,208,276 

Article  the  used  as  an  epithet  of  distinction,  168 

Article  the  is  sometimes  used  instead  of  the  possessive 

pronoun,  169 

It  sometimes  governs  the  participle,  184 


INDEX.  155 

ARTICULATION.     The  nature  of  it  explained,    32—34 
AUXILIARY  verbs.     Their  nature,  use,  and  importance, 

71,78,79,85,95—99 

The  same  verb  is  sometimes  an  auxiliary,  sometimes  a 
principal,  $7 

Their  form  in  the  Subjunctive  Mood,  90,99,196—201 
This  form  exemplified,  Exercisesfi5—  -88  Key,  54—58 
Auxiliary  and  principal  constitute  but  one  verb? 

84,85,100,108,109 

Auxiliary  and  principal  form  a  compound  tense,  100 

The  auxiliaries  should*  would,  &c.  refer  occasionally  to 

present,  past,  and  future  time,  83,91,180 

AUXILIARY.  The  auxiliary  let  governs  the  objective  case, 

178 

When  to  be  omitted,  or  repeated,          209,210.    Key,  66 
Auxiliary  words  aboundl  in  English,  and  in  other  modern 
tongues.  119 

See  Verb. 


)__  The  BIBLE.     The  present  translation  of  it  is  the 
best  standard  of  the  English  language,  161 

DR.  BLAIR'S  recommendation  of  the  study  of  grammar 
and  composition,  6,7 

(C.)  -  CADENCE.  Its  nature,  and  how  to  be  managed, 

238,239 

The  close  of  a  sentence  should  not  be  abrupt  or  unpleas- 

ant, 314 

CAESURA    and  demi-ceesura.    The  nature  of  these  poetical 

pauses  explained.  249,251 

CAPITAL  letters.  Rules  respecting  the  use  of  them,  272,273 

Modes  of  exercising  the  student  in  them,    Exercises,l%5 

CASE.     Only  three  in  English,  53 

Mode  of  forming  cases  in  Latin,  not  applicable  to   our 

language,  54 

Reasons  in  support  of  an  objective  case  attached  to  Eng- 

lish nouns,  *  54.56,110 

The  verb  to  be  has  the  sqme  case  before  and  after  it*   177 

This  rule  applies  also,  if  the  verb  is  not  expressed,  Ex.  71 

Passive  verbs  of  naming  have  the  same  case  before  and 

after  them,  178.     Exercises,  71 

Rules  which  determine  the  possessive  case,         J69  —  175 

jCASE.  Rules  which  determine  the  objective  case,  175-178 

The  same  cases  of  nouns  and  pronouns  are  connected  by 

conjunctions,  194 

See  Nominative  Case.    Possessive  Case. 

CASE  absolute.     See  Absolute. 

CHARACTERS.  Particular  ones  used  in  composition,  270,--27£ 


156  INDEX* 

CLAUSE  of  a  sentence  explained, 

CLEARNESS  of  a  sentence.  Rules  to  promote  it,  viz. 

The  proper  position  of  adverbs,  288 

The  due  position  of  circumstances,  288 

The  proper  disposition  of  relatives,  &c%  £91—292 

CLIMAX.  The  nature  of  this  figure,  325 

COLON.  Directions  for  using  it,  265,266 

COMMA.  Rules  for  applying  it  in  all  its  varieties,  258-264 

COMPARISON.  Its  rules  as  a  figure  of  speech,    '  321 

Comparative  members  how  to  be  pointed,  261 

See  Adjectives. 

CONCORD  and  government  explained,  138 

CONJUGATION.    See  verb. 

CONJUNCTIONS.    Their  nature  and  distinctions,  126.127 
Their  peculiar  use  and  importance,  128^129 

The  copulative  and  disjunctive  conjunctions  opperate  dif- 
ferently on  the  verb,  143 — 146 
Their  power  in  determining  the  mood  of  verbs,      104,194 
In  what  cases  th,ey  influence  the  form  pf  vprbs,  and  in 
what  cases  they  do  not,                                             195 — 203 
Some  of  them  require  correspondent  conjunctions,  203,204 
pften  used  improperly,  both  singly  and  in  pair§,          204 
Different  effects  of  omitting  or  repeating  them, 

205,210,301,302 

The  nature  and  construction!  pf  than  and  but,  explained 

at  large,  206.     jfag  p.  61—63 

CONJUNCTIVE  termination.     The  instances  stated,  in 

which  it  is  to  be  applied  to  the  verb,  103,198—203 

CONSONANT.   Its  precise  nature  andi  divisions,        18,20 

CONSONANT.    Distinction  between  its  name  and  nature, 

is  of  great  importance,  16 

How  to  apply  consonants  most  advantageously,    309,313 

See  Voivels  and  Consonants. 

(D.)— DASH.  In  what  cases  to  be  applied,  267 

DECLENSION.  The  noun  and  pronoun  declined,       53,62 

But  one  declension  in  English,  55 

More  than  one  would  be  useless  and  improper,  55 

DERIVATION.     Ways   in  which  words  are  derived  from 

one  another,  130—133 

Remarks  on  the  system  of  Home  Tooke,  133 

Various  sources  whence  the  English  language  is  derived, 

134—136 
DISPOSITION  of  words  and  members.  See  Arrangement. 

— ELIPSIS.    Its  nature  and  importance,  207 

It  is  frequently  unnecessary,  20? 


JINPEX.  157 

It  is  sometimes  improper,  207 

The  propriety  or  impropriety  of  the  Ellipsis,  'tfith  respect 

,to  all  the  parts  of  speech,  207—210 

Special  cases  of  improper  Ellipsis,  21 1 

In  what  cases  Auxiliaries  .are  to  he  omitted,  or  repeated, 

before  the  principal  verb,  Key,  66 

EMPHASIS.  Nature  and  necessity  of  it  explained,  231,234 

The  great  regulator  of  Quantity— and   sometimes  of  ac- 

.cent,  234—235 

The  great  rule  for  managing  it,  236 

ENGLISH  language.     Its  own  idiom  and  principles,  must 

be  observed,  84,85,104,1085— 111 

EQUIVALENCE  in  sense  does  not  imply  .similarity  in 

grammatical  construction,  72 

ETYMOLOGY,  41—136 

See  Article^  Noun,  and  the  other  parts  ©f  Speech. 

Etymological  and  Syntactical  parsing,  215—223 

EXCEPTIONS  to  .the  Second  Rule  of  Syntax,      Key,  p.  32 

EXCLAMATION.  Rules  for  applying  the  point,     268,269 

A  figure  of  Speech,  325 

EXERCISES.  Of  great  importance  to  the  student,  Ex.  3,4 

Promiscuous  Exercises  in  Orthography,     Ex.  36.  Key,  5 

in  Syntax,  Ex.  98.  Key,  69 

in  Punctuation,  Ex.  128.  Key,  100 

-in  Perspicuity,  EiX.  173.  Key,  141 


See  Grammatical  Exercises, 

|JF\)— FEET.     See  Poetical  Feet. 

FIGURES  of  speech.    Their  nature  and  use,  and  the  rules 

for  applying  them  properly,  315,325 

FINITE  verbs.  Their  nature  as  distinguished  from  verbs  in 

the  infinitive  mood,  137 

FRENCHidioms.  Some  of  them  imitated  in  English,  152,169 

Some  of  them  to  be  .avoided,  168,176,188,275 

(G.) GENDER.     Three  methods,  in  English,  of  dis- 
tinguishing the  sex,  48,49 
GENITIVE  case.     Its  meaning,  53 
GENITIVE  case.     The  double  genitive  in  what  cases  al- 
lowable,                                                               173,174 
See  Possessive  Case. 

GRAMMAR.  Its  utility  and  importance,  6 

The  philosophy  of  grammar  recommended,  4 

The  grammar  of  other  languages,  and  the  sentiments  of 

various  English  grammarians,  occasionally  noticed,      4 

The  grammatical  discussions,  dispersed  through  the  book, 

peculiarly  useful  to  students,  8 

Objections  to  the  system.    See  Objections* 


158  INDEX. 

GRAMMATICAL  exercises.     Their  use  and  importance, 

Exercises,  3,4 

Vulgar  and  glaring  errors  totally  improper,  for  such  a 

work,  Exercises,  7 

They   should  be  introduced  into  the  earliest  stages  of 

grammatical  studies  —  ^Reasons  for  this  opinion,     Ex.  8 

Particular  directions  for  using  them,       Exercises,  10,13 

GREEK  and  Latin.  When  to  be  imitated,  when  to  be  deviat- 

ed from  in  the  English  construction,  54585,88,104,109—  111 

vH".)  —  U,  Particular  attention  due  to  the  sound  of  this  letter, 

16,25,44 

HARMONY  of  words  and  members  promotes  the  strength 

of  a  sentence,  309—344 

Rules  to  promote  harmony  in  words  themselves,          310 

Rules  to  promote  the  harmony  of  words,  with  respect  to 

one  another,  312 

Rules  to  promote  harmony,  with  regard  to  the  members 

of  sentences,  313 

Sense  should  not  be  sacrificed  to  sound,  514 

Poetical  harmony  —  its  principles,  252  —  254 

HYPHEN.     When  to  be  used,  an£  whei>  to  be  omitted,  be- 

tween two  nouns,  166 

Its  general  nature  and  use,  270 

(/.)  -  -IDIOMS  of  other  languages  n^ay  be  adopted  ;  but 
with  proper  limitations,  85,104,1  10,1  11 

IMPERATIVE  mood.  See  Mood. 
JMPERSONAL  verbs.  See  Verb*. 
INFINITIVE  mood.  See  Moods. 

INNOVATIONS  in  some  parts  of  English  grammar  are  easi- 

ly made,  8,86,88 

They  should  be  admitted  with  caution,  8,86,88 

INSTRUCTION,  moral  and  religious,  should  be  occasion- 

ally blended  with  the  elements  of  learning,  7.  Ex.  5,6 

INTERJECTION.    Its  nature  and  extent,     43,44,129,130 

When  to  be  omitted,  or  repeated,  2}0.     The  Key,  67 

Rules  of  Syntax  respecting  it,  152,214 

INTERROGATION.    What  case  follows  it,  154 


Sentences  eontpning  it  parsed, 

Rules  for  applying  the  point,  267,268 

Sometimes  used  as  a  figure  of  speech,  324 

INTERROGATIVE,    See  pronoun  and  subsequent. 

IRREGULAR.    See  Verb. 

—  KEY,  The,  use  of  this  Key  to  private  learners,  Ex.  5 
Advantages  of  the  mode  of  forming  it,  Exercises,  5 


INDEX.  159 

(£.) — LEARNING.  Its  elements  should  be  occasionally 
blended  with  moral  and  religious  instruction,  7.  Ex.  5,6 
Its  happiest  application,  327,328 

LETTERS.     See   Vowels  and  Consonants. 

Several  letters  in  the  English  alphabet  superfluous,        17 

(«#/.) — MEANS.  The  phrases  this  means  and  that  means  vin^ 
dicated,  156,  160 

MELODY,  harmony,  and  expression,  with  regard  to  versi- 
fication, 251,256 
As  they  regard  Prose.  See  Harmony* 
MEMBER  of  a  sentence  distinguished  from  &  Clause,    137 
Members  how  to  be  pointed,                            £58,261,262 

See  Arrangement  and  Sentences. 

METAPHOR.  The  nature  of  it— Rules  to  be  observed  in 

using  it,  317,319 

METONYMY.  The  nature  of  this  figure  of  speech,        322 

MOODS.     Their  nature  and  variety  explained,  74,75 

The  extent  and  limitation  of  English  Moods>    79,104,105 

The  Potential  mood  in  English  supported,  78,79 

The  Potential  mood  furnished  with  four  tenses,  91 

The  Potential  converted  into  the  subjunctive,  92 

*The  Subjunctive  mood  when,  and  how,  varied  in  its  form 

the  Indicative,  ^  89*90,99,103,202 

'The  existence  of  a  subjunctive  mood,  in  English  proved, 

103,104,202 

Various  opinions  of  grammarians,  respecting  the  existence, 
nature,  and  extent,  of  the  English   Subjunctive  mood, 

202,203 

In  what  cases  conjunctions  require  the  Subjunctive  mood, 

195.200 

When  contingency  and  futurity  concur,  the  termination 

of  the  verb  is  varied,  198,200 

Indicative  mood  different  from  the  Potential,  78,79 

Indicative  different  from  the  Subjunctive,    79,90,1033203 

Infinitive  mood.  Its  great  simplicity,  75,76 

MOOD.     How  it  is  governed  and  applied,  179 

The  sign  to  is  often  misapplied,  179 

When  the  present,  and  when  the  perfect,  of  the  infinitive 

is  to  be  used,  180,183.  J%,  44,45 

This  point  exemplified,         Exercises,  73,74.    Key,  42,44 

.  The  infinitive  mood  often  made  absolute,  179 

How  it  is  to  be  pointed,  261 

Imperative  mood,  variously  applied,  74,78,138 

Extent  of  the  Imperative,  strictly  considered,        88,223 

A  verb  in  this  mood  is  not  affirmative,  72 

The  same  moods  connected  by  conjunctions,        194,195 


160  INDEX; 

MOVEMENT  and  measure,  how  distinguished,  £49 

MULTITUDE.     Nouns  of  this  kind  operate  variously  on 

the  verb,  147 

(«yV.) — NATIONS.     Different  nations  have  used   various 
contrivances  to  mark  the  moods,  tenses,  and  cases, 

54,104,109,110,119 

NEGATIVES.     Two  in  English  form  an  affirmative,     189 

Two  of  them  are  often  used,  instead  of  one,  189 

This  point  elucidated,  Exercises,  80,81.  Key,  50 

NEUTER  pronoun  it,  very  variously  applied,  152,153 

NEUTER  verb.  See  verb. 

NOMINATIVE  case.  Its  nature  explained,  53 

It  follows  the  verb,  in  interrogative  and  imperative  sen- 
tences, 138 
It  agrees  with  the  verb,  in  number  and  person,  139 
The  infinitive  mood,  or  part  of  a  sentence,  is   often  the 
nominative  case  to  a  verb,  139 
Every  verb  has  a  nominative  case,  except,  &c.  140 
Every  nominative  belongs  to  some  verb,  except,  &c.  140 
NOMINATIVE  case.  In  certain  circumstances,  a  verb  be- 
tween two  nouns,  may  have  either  for  its  nominative,  141 
A  nominative  before  a  participle,  &c.  forms  the  case  abso- 
lute,                                                                                 141 
The1  nominative  is  commonly  placed  before  the  verb — in 
what  cases  after  it,                                                 141,142 
In  the  phrases  as  follows,  as  appears,  what  are  the  nom- 
inatives to  the  verbs,  142 
The  nominative  to  the  verb  is  sometimes  not  easily  as- 
certained,                                                              144.145 
In  what   instance  is  the   relative  the  nominative  to  the 
verb,  153 
When  there  are  two  nominatives  of  different  persons,  to 
which  should  the  verb  apply,  155 
Rules  for  pointing  the  nominative,                        258,263 

See  Case. 

NOUNS.  Their  nature  and  divisions,  46,47 

Three  modes  of  distinguishing  their  gender,  48,49 

But  few  in  English,  with  variable  terminations,  50 

The  number  of  nouns  how  formed,  50,52 

English  nouns  have  but  three  cases,  53,56 

Two  successive  nouns  in  the  possessive  case  to  be  avoid- 
ed, 

Nouns  are  often  formed  by  participles, 
They  are  often  derived  from  verbs  and  adjectives, 
Singular  nouns  joined  by  a  copulative,  require  their  verbs, 
&c.  to  be  in  the  plural  number, 


INDEX. 

Tliis  required  even  when  the  nouns  are  nearly  related,  144 
Cases  of  difficulty  stated,  and  resolved,  144,145 

When  the  nouns  are  of  different  persons,  which  is  to  be 

preferred,  146 

Singular  nouns  connected  by  a  disjunctive,  require  the 

verb,  £c.  to  be  in  the  singular  number,  146 

When  the  disjunctive  noun  and  pronoun  are  of  different 

persons,  the  verb  agrees  with  the  nearer,  146 

NOUNS.  A  disjunctive  between  a  singular  and  plural  noun, 

requires  the  verb  to  be  plural,  147 

Nouns  of  multitude  sometimes  require  a  singular  verb,' 

sometimes  a  plural  one,  147 

This  point  exemplified,  Exercise*^  55,56.     Key,  24 

One  noun  governs  another  in  the  possessive  case,          169 
If  the  nouns  signify  the  same  thing,  there  is  no  variation 

of  case,  169 

The  nouns  are  then  in  apposition^  1 69 

This  construction  changed  by  a  relative  and  verb,       169 
Rules  for  applying,  or  omitting,  the  sign  of  the  possessive 

case,  170,173,174 

The  preposition  of  is  frequently  preferred  to  the  sign  of 

the  possessive  case,  173,174 

A  noun  maybe  formed  by  th0  article  and  participle,  and 

by  the  pronoun  and  participle,  183,185 

In  what  cases  the  noun  is  omitted,  in  what  repeated,    208 
How  to  be  pointed,  25 9,261, 262 

See  Case.     Declension. 

NUMBER.  The  nature  of  it  shown,  50 

How  the  plural  number  of  nouns  is  formed,  50,51 

Applicable  to  nouns,  pronouns,  and  verbs,  50,61,73 

(0.)— OBJECTIONS.     Most  of  those  made  to  this  system 
of  grammar  answered,  8 

OBJECTIVE  case.  See  Case. 

OBSCURITY.     It  arises  from  a  wrong  choice  of    words, 

277—281 

And  from  a  wrong  arrangement  of  them,  287 — 392 

Three  chief  causes  of  writing  obscurely,  280 

OPPOSITION.     Words  opposed  how  to  be  pointed,      261 
Sentiments  opposed  how  to  be  expressed,  308 

ORDER  of  words  and  members.  See  Arrangement. 
ORTHOGRAPHY,  13—40 

Far  from  being  uniform,  in  English,  40 

Rules  for  forming  primitive  and  derivative  words,  37 — 4f) 
The  orthography  of    Dr.  Johnson  not   to  be  altered  on 
slight  grounds,  40 

See  Alphabet,  Syllables,  Vowels  and  Consonants.  <frc. 
P  2 


163  INDEX. 

(P.)_ PARAGRAPHS.     Rules  for  dividing  a  work  into 
paragraphs,  272 

PARENTHESIS.    In  what  cases  it  is  proper,  in  what  im- 
proper, 269,296 
The  point  to  be  placed  within  it,  270 

PARSING.     Its  nature  and  use,  215 

Etymological  parsing,  215 — 217.     Exercises,  2 

Syntactical  parsing,  217 — 223.     Exercises,  3 

Etymological  parsing  table,  Exercises,  1 

Syntactical  parsing  table,  Exercises,  2 

PARTICIPLE.  Its  nature  and  properties  explained,  75 — 77 
Perfect  and  passive  participle  distinguished,  76 

It  is  not  a  distinct  part  of  speech,  102 

Its  use  in  conjugating  both  the  active  and  passive  verbs, 

102,105,108 

The  participle  and  its  adjuncts  forma  substantive  phrase, 

185,223 

The  participle  has  the  same  goverment  as  its  verb,  183 
Jt  becomes  a  substantive  by  means  of  the  article,  184 
And  also  by  means  of  the  pronoun,  185 

Thtr  perfect  participle  and  imperfect  tense  not  to  be  con- 
founded, i  186 
The  participle  with  its  dependencies,  how  to  be  pointed,  260 
Reasons  for  assigning  it  a  distinct  place  in  Syntax,  Ex.  55 

PARTICIPLE  as,  is  not  always  equivalent  to  the  pronoun 
it,  or  that,  or  ivhich,  143.     Key,  60 

PARTS  of  speech.  Variously  enumerated  by  gramrnarians,43 
The  same  word  forms  different  parts  of  speech.  See  Words. 

PAUSES.  Their  nature,  kinds,  and  uses,  236,237 

Rules  for  applying  them  properly,  238 

The  closing  and  suspending  pauses  distinguished,  238,239 
Poetical  pauses  of  two  sorts,  249,251 

PERIOD,     Directions  for  using  it,  266 

PERSONIFICATION.  Its  nature  and  use,  322,823 

PERSONS,  Applicable  to  nouns,  pronouns,  &  Verbs,  47,61,73 

Three  necessary  in  each  number,  61 — 73 

The  second  takes  place  of  the  third,  &  the  first  of  both,  146 

The  second  person  is  the  object  of  the  imperative,  88 

The  nominative  and  verb  agree  in  person,  139 

How  to  avoid  the  confusion  of  persons,  146 

Relative  and  antecedent  are  of  the  same  person,          148 

The  person  is  variable  when  the  relative  is  preceded  by 

two  nominatives  of  different  persons,  155 

Persons  of  the  verb  when  to  be  varied,  when  not,  103,195.203 

PERSPICUITY  and  accuracy,  274—326 

See  purity, propriety,  precision,  clearness,  unity,  Ik  strength. 

PHRASE.    Its  nature;  138,257 


INDEX.  168 

How  to  be  pointed,  258,263 

The  phrase, "  as  follows,"  explained,  142,143,153 

The  phrase,  "  every  leaf  and  every  twig,"  requires  a  sin- 
gular verb,  Key.    Ruleviii.     Note  3.  p.  32 
POETICAL  feet.     Why  called  Feet,  242 
Formed,  in  English,  by  accented  #  unaccented  syllables,  242 
Their  kinds,   divisions,  and  subdivisions,             243 — 249 
Poetical  harmony.  See  Harmony  and  Melody. 
Poetical  pauses.    See  Pauses. 

POSITION  of  words.   Great  importance  of  the  situation,  in 

which  words  are  placed  in  a  sentence,  811 

POSITION  of  words.     The  place  of  adverbs,  relatives,  and 

circumstances,  necessary  to  the  clearness  of  a  sentence, 

288—291 
See  Arrangement. 

POSSESSESSIVE  case.    The  sign  of  it  when  and  where  to 
be  applied,  171,172 

In  what  instances,  both  the  sign   and  the  preposition  of 
are  to  be  used,  173,  174 

POTENTIAL  mood.  See  Mood. 
PRECISION  of  language.  In  what  it  consists, 

Three  faults  opposed  to  precision,  282 

Words  termed  synonymous  are  the  great  source  of  a  loose 
style,  284,285 

PREPOSITIONS.     Their  nature  and  office, 

They  often  give  verbs  a  new  meaning,  123 

Certain  syllables   improperly  termed  inseparable  prepo- 
sitions, 123 
The  peculiar  use  of  prepositions  shown,                   ;       124 
They  are  are  often  properly  omitted,                            210 
They  are  not,  in  general,  to  be  separated  from  the  rela- 
tive, or  the  noun,                                                    190,300 
They  govern  the  objective  case,  190 
Different  relations  require  different  prepositions,  though 
connected  by  the  same  verb,  191 
A  copious  list  of  errors  in  applying  the  different  preposi- 
tions,                                                                   191—193 
What  prepositions  are  proper  before  nouns  of  place,193,l94 
When  the  preposition  is  to  be  omitted,                          210 
How  to  be  pointed,                                                         262 
fRONOUN.    Its  general  nature  and  use,  60 
Three  kinds  of  pronouns,                                                  60 
Three  persons  to  each  number  of  the  pronoun,                6 I 
Why  the  third  person  only  is  marked  by  gender,          61 
The  Personal  pronouns  how  declined,  62 
The  Relative  pronoun  and  its  varieties  explained,   62 — 64 
PRONOUN.    The  Relative  and  Interrogative  not  distinct 
speeies;                   J                                               64?65 


164  INDEX. 

The  Adjective  pronoun  and  its  four  subdwsions  explain- 
ed,  "  65—68 
Various   opinions,    respecting  the    Adjective  pronoun, 
stated,  68,69 
Pronouns  agree  with  their  antecedents,  in  gender  and 
number,  148 
Relatives,  though  in  the  objective  case,  are  placed  before 
the  verb,                                                                   149,175 
Personal  pronouns  are  unnecessary,  when  the  noun  itself 
is  expressed,  149 
w    The  pronoun  that  is  frequently  applied  to  persons  as  well 
as  to  things,                                                                   149 
This  is  sometimes  indispensable,                              149,150 
The  pronouns  whichsoever,  &c.  may  be  elegantly  divicled, 

150 

The  objective  case  of  the  personal  pronouns,  is  improper- 
ly used  instead  of  these  and  those,  150 
What  is  improperly  used  for  that,  150 
The  pronoun  who  is  often  misapplied  for  which,  151 
The  relative  ivho  not  applicable  to  little  children,       151 
When  the  name  of  a  person  is  used,  merely  as  a  name, 
which  should  be  used  instead  of  who,  151 
The  relative  often  attended  with  ambiguity,   152,291,292 
It  is  and  it  was,  are  often  used  in  a  plural  construction,  152 
What  case  of  the  pronoun  does  the  interjection  require,152 
The  neuter  pronoun  it  often  refers  to  the  masculine,  and 
the  feminine  gender,                                             152,  153 
The  pronoun  i£has  various  applications,  153 
The  relative  is  sometimes  the  nominative  to  the  verb,  153 
In  what  cases,  it  has  a  different  construction,  153 
When  the  pronoun  is  interrogative,  what  case  follows  it,  54 
The  relative  may  agree  with  either  of  two  nominatires  of 
different  persons,                                                            155 
Adjective  pronouns  agree  in  number  with  their  nouns,  156 
PRONOUN.     This  means,  that  means,  are  correct  phrases, 

156—160 

That  refers  to  the  former,  this  to  the  latter,  160 

Each,  every,  either,  refer  to  the  singular  number,  160,161 

The  copulative  and  makes  no  difference,  with  regard  to 

this  rule,  Key,  p.  32.  the  Note. 

In  what  cases  the  pronoun  should  be  omitted ,  in  what 

cases  repeated,  208,  209 

How  to  be  pointed,  262 

PROPRIETY  of  language.    Rules  to  promote  it,  viz.       , 

Low  expressions  to  be  avoided,  276 

Words  that  are  wanting,  to  be  supplied, 

The  same  word  not  to  be  used  in  different  senses; 


ItfDEX.  16S 

The  improper  use  of  technical  terms,  to  be  avoided,     277 
Ambiguous  words  not  to  be  used,  277 

Unintelligible  expressions  to  be  avoided*  278 

All  words  that  are  not  fully  adapted  to  the  meaning,  to 
be  rejected, 

PROSE  and  verse  distinguished,  250 

PROSODY,  224—256 

Seeaccewf,  quantity,  emphasis, pauses,  tones, feet,  SfJflelody. 

PUNCTUATION,  257—2731 

Varied  according  to  the  length  and  proportion  of  the  clauses, 

257,264  : 

It  may  be  considered  as  either  long  or  short,  257,264 

Properly  treated  as  a  distinct  article,  25/ 

See  Comma,  Semicolon,  Colon,  and  Period. 
See  also  Characters. 

PURITY  of  style.  Rules  for  promoting  it,  274,275 

(<£)—  QUANTITY.  Its  nature  and  variations,  220,230 
General  rules  for  determining  the  quantity  of  vowels,230,231 
QUANTITY.  For  the  various  quantity  of  each  of  the  vowels, 

seepage  21,  &c< 

(JS.)— RELATION.  Things  related  in  point  of  time,  should 

have  a  correspondent  expression,  179 — 183 

In  relating  particular  declarations  of  others,  what  tense 

should  be  used,  Key,  p.  43,  44 

RELATIVES,  See  Pronouns. 
REPETITION  of  words,   when   proper,  when  improper. 

See  Ellipsis,  and  Key,  p.  61-67 

RHYME.  Its  definition,  242 

(£.)— SEMICOLON.    Rules  for  applying  it,  264,266 

SENTENCES.     They  are  of  various  kinds,      137,138,257 

Long  and  short  should  be  duly  blended,  286,287 

Their  number  should  be  proportionably  arranged,         313 

See  Member  and  Clause. 

SHALL  and  will*     Their  peculiar  application,  89,90,98,99 
SIMILE.     Its  nature  and  use-Directions  for  using  it  most 
advantageously,  321,322 

SIMPLE  ami  compound  tenses  how  formed,  100 

SOUND  of  the  letters.  See  Vowels  and  Consonants. 
SPEECH.  How  it  is  formed,  32—34 

See  Parts  of  Speech. 
SPELLING.    See  Words. 

STANDARD  of  propriety.  What  forms  it  in  language,  159 
STRENGTH  of  a  sentence.  Rules  to  promote  it,  viz. 

AH  redundant  expressions  to  be  pruned,  297 — 300 

STRENGTH.    The  use  of  copulatives,  relatives,  &c.  to  be 

attended  to,  300—303 


166  INDEX' 

The  capital  words  to  be  judiciously  dispbsed,     305—306 

A  weaker  assertion  not  to  be  followed  by  a  stronger  one,306 

An  adverb,  a  preposition,  &c.  should  not  conclude  the 

sentence,  306— SOS 

Where  there  is  resemblance,  or   contrast,   the  language 

should  be  correspondent,  308,309 

The  harmony  of  the  words  &  members  must  be  regarded, 

309,314 

SUBJUNCTIVE  mood.  Its  true  nature  and  extent  in  Eng^ 
lish,  See  Mood  ;   and  also  pages  90,103, 104 

SUBORDINATE  rules  of  the  Grammar,  Exercises,  &  Key* 
numbered  to  denote  their  correspondence,  139.  Ex.  50 
SUBSEQUENT  to  the  interrogative*    In  what  cases  this 
term  is  proper,  62,65,155 

SUBSTANTIVE  phrase.  See  Participle* 
SYLLABLES*    General  rules  for  dividing  Words  into  syl- 
lables, 35,36 
"Words  with  a  mixture  of  long  and  short  syllables,  are  the 
most  melodious,  310 
SYNECDOCHE.  The  nature  of  this  figure,  322 
SYNONYMOUS  words.    Injudicious  use  of  words  termed 
synonymous,  is  the  great  source  of  a  loose  style,  284-286 
Few.  if  any,  words  are  perfectly  synonymous*        285,286 
SYNTAX,     '                                                              137—212 
See  its  rules  under  the  Article,  the  JVown,  and  the  other 
parts  of  Speech. *-«Its  most  comprehensive  rule,       212 

(T.)— TENSE*  Six  tenses  Belong  to  the  English  verb,  80 
Their  nature  and  distinctions  explained  at  large,  80 — 83 
They  are  definite  or  indefinite,  perfect  or  imperfect,  83,84 
They  are  composed  of  the  principal  verb  and  its  auxiliaries; 
&  these  parts  constitute  one  verb,84--86,103,105,108--lll 
The  present  names  of  the  tenses  justifiable,  87 

How  far  the  tenses  of  the  Indicative    and   Subjunctive 
moods  vary  in  their  form,  90,103,104,196—203 

The  tenses  of  verbs  should  exactly  correspond  with  rela- 
tive actions  and  events,  179 
When  the  present,  and  when  the  perfect,  of  the  infinitive 
should  be  used,                                                        180.183 
The  same  tenses  are  connected  by  conjunctions,   194,195 
TERMINATION  of  a  verb  is  altered,  when  contingency 
and  futurity  concur,                                               198,199 
This  point  elucidated,         Exercises,  86,  88*    Key,  55,58 
TERMS  used  to  designate  the  three  past  tenses,  supported,  87 
Established  terms  oc  arrangements,  not  to  be  rejected,  86,89 
THAN  and  but,  explained  at  large,              206.    Key,  p.  61 
TH  AT,  as  a  relative,  often  useful,sometimesindispensable,149 
TIME,    See  Relation  and  Tenses. 


IND'EX.  167 

TONES.    Their  nature  and  use,  239 

In  what  respect  different  from  Emphasis,  239 

Rules  and  limitations  respecting  them,  241 

(U.) — U.  w3  instead  of  aw  is  to  be  used  before  words  begin- 
ning with  the  long  u9  29,44 

UNITY  of  a  sentence.  Rules  to  promote  it,  viz. 

The  scene  to  be  changed  as  little  as  possible,  293 

Things  but  slightly  connected  should  not  be  crowded  into 

one  sentence,    r  294,296 

Every  unnecessary  parenthesis  to  be  avoided,        296,297 

(F.)— -VARIATION.    What  degree  of  it  >yiil  constitute  a 
distinct  mood  of  the  verb,  103,104 

When  proper  in  the  auxiliaries  of  the  verb,  197,292 

VERB.     How  divided— The  division  justified,  70 

Distinction  between  active  and  neuter  verbs,  71 

The  true  nature  of  the  English  verb  explained  and  vindi- 
cated, 71,73,108,111 
A  few  terminations  of  the  English  verb,  are  sufficient  for 
every  purpose,  73,74 
Conjugation  explained,  86 
The  advantage  to  the  student  of  conjugating  the  verb  in 
all  its  tenses,                                                                 90 
The  peculiar  uses  of  conjugating  the  active  verb  with  the 
present  participle  and  verb  to  be,                                 102 
Mode  of  conjugating  a  passive  verb,                               105 
Observations  on  passive  verbs,                                108,111 
The  conjugation  of  an  English  verb  at  large,  is  a  regular 
and  beautiful  exhibition,                                                110 
A  comprehensive  list  of  irregular  verbs,                 111,116 
Particular  contractions  4" obsolete  words  to  be  avoided,  117 
When  the  regular  or  the  irregular  verb  is  to  be  preferred,!  17 
Defective  verbs.  Their  nature — A  list  of  them,            117 
But  one  conjugation  of  English  verbs,  and  why,          118 
Impersonal  verbs.  None  in  the  language,                      118 
VERB.     Advantages  and  disadvantages  of  the  mode  of  con- 
jugating the  English  verb,                                           119 
The  phrases  as  follows^  as  appears,  form  what  are  called 
impersonal  verbs,                                                          142 
Peculiar  cases  of  difficulty  in  determining  whether  the  verb 
is  to  be  in  the  singular,  or  in  the  plural  number,  144,145 
Active  verbs  govern  the  objective  case,                          175 
Neuter  verbs  govern  no  case,                                   175,176 
Irregular  practice  of  writers,  in  using  certain  neuter  verbs 
as  if  they  were  active,                                                176 
Active  verbs  sometimes  improperly  made  neuter,         176 
The  neuter  verb  is  generally  varied  like  the  active,  but 
sometimes  it  admits  the  passive  form,            108,176,177 
f  he  verb  to  freis  a  conductor  of  cases,  177.  Exercises,  71 


168 

Passive  verbs  of  naming,  their  construction,  178 

One  verb  governs  another  in  the  Infinitive,  178 

The  irfinitive  is  often  improperly  used,  178,179 

Verbs  expressive  of  hope,  desire,  #c.  are  invariably  follow- 
ed by  the  present  of  the  Infinitive,  181 
In  what  cases  the  form  of  the  verb  is  influenced  by  a  con- 
junction 5  in  what  cases  it  is  not,                    195 — 202 
When  the  verb  should  be  omitted,  when  repeated, 

209,210.   Key,  66 

How  it  should  be  pointed,  260,263 

See  Mood,  Tense,  Number,  Person,  Participle,  Auxil- 
iary and  Nominative  Case. 

VERSE.  Distinction  between  verse  and  prose,  250 

Trochaic,  Iambic,  and  other  verses  explained^  243 

Their  different  effects  exhibited,  244 — 249 

VERSIFICATION.   Its  constituents  and  rules,     241—256 

VOWELS  and  Consonants.  A  minute  scale  of  them,  15—17 

Their  peculiar  &  various  sounds  explained  8c  exemplified, 

21--31 

VOWELS  and   Consonants.  Importance   of  being  able  to 

pronounce  them  accurately,  17,34 

Vowels  give  softness,  consonants  strength,  to  words.      310 

See  Consonant. 

{  FF.)--W  shown  to  be  sometimes  a  vowel,  sometimes  a  conso- 
nant, 18,30,11 
WORDS.  Number  of  them  in  the  English  language,          118 
^The  same  word  often  forms  different  parts  of  speech,  64,120 
This  point  exemplified,  Exercises,  9,10                 [126,127 
Rules  for  spelling  them,  37 — 40 
Three  capital  faults  in  using  them,  282 
Redundant  words  and  members  to  be  pruned,        297 — 300 
The  little  words,  but,  and,  or,  then,  £{c.  are  frequently  of 
the  greatest  importance,                                             300 — 303 
The  chief  word  or  words  of  a  sentence,  how  to  be  placed, 

303,306 

WTords  and  phrases  related  in  point  of  time,  179 — 183 

WRITING  unintelligibly.    The  principal  causes  of  it  enum- 
erated, 280 
(X.) — X,  this  letter  does  not  represent  a  simple  sound,     17 
It  has  three  distinct  sounds,  30,31.      It  is  a  Semi-vowel,  19 
(F.)-rr-Y,  in  some  situations,  is  a  vowel,  iu  others  a  consonant, 

18,30,31 

It  represents  a  simple  sound,  16,31 

(#.)— Z,  is  a  Semi-vowel,  19.        It  has  the  flat  sound  of  s,  31 

N.  B.  The  figures  which  are  not  accompanied  by  the  name 

of  any  book,  refer  to  the  duodecimo  edition  of  the  Grammar. 

-FINIS.- 


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